10 Best Kamado Grills 2025 in the United States

The Char-Griller® AKORN® Kamado Charcoal Grill and Smoker is a versatile cooking device that combines the best of grilling and smoking. With a spacious cooking area of 447 square inches, it can accommodate up to 27 burgers at once, making it a suitable choice for gatherings or family cookouts. Its triple-walled steel insulated design helps maintain consistent temperatures, which is essential for both high-heat grilling and low-and-slow smoking.

One of the standout features is its cast iron grates, known for excellent heat retention and even cooking. The grill's ease of use is enhanced by its adjustable dual dampers and built-in thermometer, allowing users to control the cooking temperature accurately. Additionally, the removable Easy Dump Ash Pan simplifies cleanup, which is a great convenience for regular users.

However, the grill weighs 97 pounds, which might be cumbersome for some users to maneuver despite its 8-inch locking caster wheels. While the grill is free-standing and comes with a bottom storage shelf and foldable side shelves, the number of racks is limited to one, which could be a downside for those looking to cook multiple types of food simultaneously.

The AKORN Kamado's build quality is robust, with alloy steel construction and a powder-coated finish that promises durability. That said, assembly is required, which may be a bit challenging for first-time users. Accessories like the grill cover and smoking stone are sold separately, which could add to the overall cost.

This grill’s strength lies in its versatility and sturdy build, making it suitable for outdoor cooking enthusiasts. Potential buyers should consider its weight and the need for additional purchases to enhance its functionality.

The Kamado Joe Big Joe Series II 24-inch Ceramic Charcoal Grill is an impressive option for those who are serious about grilling and smoking. Made from high-quality ceramic, this grill promises durability and excellent heat retention. Its spacious 450-square-inch cooking area is ideal for large gatherings, and the innovative divide & conquer flexible cooking system allows you to cook different foods at varying temperatures simultaneously.

The air lift hinge is a standout feature, making it easy to handle the heavy dome with minimal effort, enhancing the user experience. Additionally, the control tower top vent ensures precise airflow management, crucial for maintaining steady temperatures. The double-thick wire mesh fiberglass gasket provides an airtight seal, which contributes to better temperature control and fuel efficiency. The grill’s multi-panel firebox design is another smart addition, reducing the risk of breakage over time.

However, weighing 394 pounds, this grill is quite heavy, which might make it challenging to move around. It’s also on the pricier side, and while the quality justifies the cost, it may not be within everyone’s budget. Despite these drawbacks, the Kamado Joe Big Joe Series II is a strong contender for anyone looking to up their grilling game with a durable, versatile, and easy-to-use kamado grill.

The Weber Summit Kamado E6 Charcoal Grill stands out with its robust steel construction and porcelain-enameled finish, ensuring durability and longevity. The dual-walled insulation is a significant advantage, offering precise temperature control and efficient heat retention, essential for both low and slow smoking and high-heat searing. The grill features a large 24-inch cooking area, making it suitable for feeding a crowd and allowing for versatile two-zone cooking setups. The adjustable grate and diffuser plate contribute to maintaining consistent temperatures, which are critical for smoking meats effectively.

The RapidFire lid damper facilitates quick temperature adjustments by boosting airflow, while the built-in lid thermometer is helpful for monitoring the cooking temperature. The One-Touch cleaning system simplifies post-cooking cleanup, a big plus for hassle-free maintenance. Additionally, the grill is part of the Gourmet BBQ System, though additional cookware is sold separately, which may be considered a downside by some users. Weighing 132 pounds, the grill is solid but may require effort to move around.

The build quality of the grill is impressive, though it does require assembly, which could be a minor inconvenience. For those looking for a high-quality, versatile charcoal grill with excellent temperature control and cooking area, the Weber Summit Kamado E6 is a strong contender.