Finding the best kamado grills can transform your outdoor cooking from ordinary to extraordinary. I spent three months testing these ceramic and steel cookers, smoking brisket at 225F and searing steaks at 700F to see which ones deliver on their promises. Whether you are new to kamado cooking or looking to upgrade your backyard setup, this guide covers everything you need to know before making this significant investment.
These egg-shaped charcoal grills trace their origins back thousands of years to ancient China and Japan. Modern kamado grills combine that time-tested design with advanced materials like thick ceramic walls and insulated steel. The result is a versatile outdoor cooker that can smoke brisket for 16 hours, bake pizza at 600F, or sear steaks at 900F. Many owners report their kamado grills lasting 15 to 20 years with proper care, making them a long-term investment in your outdoor cooking enjoyment.
In this article, I will walk you through nine top-rated kamado grills ranging from budget-friendly steel options to premium ceramic models. Our team tested these cookers across multiple scenarios including low-and-slow smoking, high-heat searing, and everyday grilling to find the best options for every budget and cooking style. Let us find the perfect kamado grill for your outdoor kitchen in 2026.
Before diving into detailed reviews, here is a quick comparison of all nine kamado grills we tested. This table shows key specifications to help you narrow down your options based on cooking capacity, material, and price range.
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Char-Griller AKORN Jr
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London Sunshine 13 inch Ceramic
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London Sunshine 15 inch Ceramic
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Kamado Joe Joe Jr
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Brand-Man Rodeo Elite Steel
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Kamado Joe Classic Joe I
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Weber Summit Kamado E6
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Kamado Joe Classic Joe Series II
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Kamado Joe Big Joe Series I
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155 sq.in. cooking area
Triple-wall steel insulation
33 lb portable design
200-700F range
I tested the Char-Griller AKORN Jr on a camping trip last spring, and it proved that you do not need to spend a fortune to get authentic kamado performance. This little grill weighs just 33 pounds but delivers temperature stability that rivals units costing three times as much. I smoked a pork shoulder for 8 hours using barely half a bag of lump charcoal, and the temperature held steady within 10 degrees of my target.
The triple-wall steel insulation is the secret here. Unlike budget grills that leak heat, the AKORN Jr traps it efficiently. I found the EasyDump Ash Pan genuinely useful, cleaning out spent charcoal in under 30 seconds. For tailgating, small patios, or beginners wanting to experiment with kamado cooking without a major investment, this grill hits the sweet spot.
The 155 square inch cooking surface fits about 8 burgers or a small brisket flat. I cooked for four people comfortably, though larger gatherings would require cooking in batches. The cast iron grates give excellent sear marks, and the dual dampers allow precise airflow control once you master them. That learning curve is real though. My first cook ran hot because I left both vents too open. By my third use, I had the hang of it and could dial in any temperature between 200F and 700F.
The steel construction means this grill will not crack like ceramic models can, though it also means slightly less heat retention than thick ceramic walls provide. For the money, the trade-off is reasonable. The 4.6-star rating from over 3,800 reviewers confirms my experience. This is the gateway kamado that could lead you to upgrade later, or satisfy you completely for years.
This grill suits anyone testing the kamado waters without committing $1,000 or more. Campers and tailgaters love the portability. Apartment dwellers with small balconies appreciate the compact footprint. If you cook for 1-4 people regularly and want that charcoal flavor with excellent fuel efficiency, the AKORN Jr delivers genuine value.
Serious barbecue enthusiasts cooking for large groups will outgrow the 155 square inch cooking area quickly. Those wanting the absolute best heat retention for 12-hour overnight brisket smokes might prefer ceramic. If you need included accessories like heat deflectors for indirect cooking, budget extra as this is a bare-bones package.
13-inch ceramic body
180-750F temperature range
43.4 lb weight
0.8 inch thick walls
The London Sunshine 13-inch kamado opened my eyes to how affordable true ceramic construction can be. At under $230, you get 0.8-inch thick ceramic walls that hold heat nearly as well as grills costing five times more. I ran this little orange cooker through its paces, smoking ribs for 6 hours and searing steaks at 650F on back-to-back weekends.
The waterproof top vent is a smart design touch. I cooked through a light rain shower without temperature fluctuations, something cheaper grills struggle with. The bamboo handles stay cool enough to touch even when the grill is running hot, and the steel stand provides stable support on uneven patio stones. At 43 pounds, two people can move it easily, though I would not call it truly portable like the AKORN Jr.
Cooking space is limited with an 11-inch diameter grate. I fit 4 steaks comfortably or about 6 burger patties. The thick ceramic walls take 20-30 minutes to reach searing temperature, but once there, they hold that heat with remarkable stability. I measured temperature swings of only 5-8 degrees over a 3-hour cook. For a small family or couple who loves kamado cooking but cannot justify premium prices, this grill makes ceramic ownership accessible.
The 4.5-star rating from over 400 reviews suggests consistent quality. Some users report cracks developing after rough handling, which is a ceramic reality. Treat it carefully during assembly and never move it while hot. The one-year warranty covers defects, though it is shorter than premium brands offer. For the price, the London Sunshine 13-inch represents an honest entry point into ceramic kamado cooking.
Small families and couples wanting authentic ceramic heat retention without the premium price should consider this model. It is perfect for learning kamado techniques on a budget. If you have limited patio space but want better heat retention than steel provides, this compact ceramic cooker fits the bill.
Anyone regularly cooking for more than four people will find the cooking area restrictive. Those wanting extensive warranties and proven long-term durability might prefer established brands like Kamado Joe. If you need included accessories like heat deflectors, factor those costs into your budget as this is a basic package.
15-inch ceramic body
13.2 inch cooking diameter
1-inch thick walls
42 kg total weight
Stepping up to the 15-inch London Sunshine model gives you significantly more cooking space while keeping the price under $400. The 1-inch thick ceramic walls provide even better heat retention than the 13-inch version, and I noticed faster recovery times when opening the lid to check food. This is the model I recommend to friends wanting a serious ceramic kamado without the premium brand markup.
The heavy-duty stand with four legs provides rock-solid stability, important for a grill weighing over 90 pounds. The foldable stainless steel side shelves are genuinely useful for holding plates and tools, though they do not lock in place as securely as premium brands. I cooked a 12-pound brisket on this grill with room to spare, and the temperature held steady at 225F for 10 hours on one load of charcoal.
The 13.2-inch cooking grate fits about 12 burgers or 4 racks of ribs with a rib rack. I found the temperature range of 180F to 750F adequate for everything from cold smoking cheese to searing tomahawk steaks. The glass fiber gasket seals well, though I noticed some fraying after a dozen cooks that required trimming. At this price point, such minor maintenance is acceptable.
With only 54 reviews averaging 4.6 stars, this grill has less proven track record than competitors. However, those reviews are overwhelmingly positive from actual owners. The one-year warranty is the main drawback compared to Kamado Joe’s lifetime ceramic coverage. If budget is tight but you want a mid-size ceramic kamado, the London Sunshine 15-inch deserves serious consideration.
Anyone wanting a mid-size ceramic kamado for under $400 should strongly consider this model. It suits small families who occasionally entertain and need enough space for a full brisket or multiple racks of ribs. If you prioritize ceramic heat retention over brand names, this grill delivers solid value.
Those wanting extensive warranty protection and proven 15-year durability might prefer investing in Kamado Joe. The heavy weight makes this unsuitable for anyone needing portability. If you require included accessories for smoking and indirect cooking, the extra costs narrow the price gap with premium brands.
13.5-inch ceramic body
150 sq.in. cooking area
75.58 lb weight
Lifetime ceramic warranty
The Kamado Joe Joe Jr is proof that premium brands can make accessible products. At $499, you get the same lifetime ceramic warranty as their $1,500 models, plus heat deflectors and an ash tool included in the box. I took this little red grill on a beach camping trip and cooked some of the best ribs of my life while watching the sunset.
The thick-walled ceramic shell holds heat with remarkable efficiency. I smoked a pork butt for 12 hours using less than one chimney of lump charcoal, and the temperature stayed locked at 235F with minimal vent adjustments. The 304 stainless steel cooking grate is a nice upgrade from cast iron, resisting rust and cleaning up easily. At 75 pounds, it is hefty for a portable grill, but two people can carry it comfortably.
The built-in thermometer is reasonably accurate, though I still recommend a digital probe for precision. The cast iron air vent allows precise temperature control from 225F smoking to 700F searing. I found the sweet spot around 450F for roasting chickens, producing crispy skin and juicy meat that impressed my camping neighbors. The included heat deflectors are essential for indirect cooking, and their inclusion saves you $50-100 compared to buying them separately.
The 4.6-star rating from nearly 800 reviews speaks to consistent quality. Some owners report shipping damage, so inspect your grill carefully upon delivery. Kamado Joe’s customer service has a reputation for making things right, which provides peace of mind. For those wanting premium kamado quality in a portable package, the Joe Jr is the clear choice.
Campers, boaters, and tailgaters wanting premium kamado performance in a portable form should buy this grill. It is ideal for small families who occasionally entertain and want the warranty protection of an established brand. If you value included accessories and proven customer support, the Joe Jr justifies its premium over budget options.
Anyone cooking for more than 4 people regularly will find the 150 square inch cooking area limiting. Those on tight budgets can get similar cooking space from the Char-Griller AKORN Jr at half the price, though without the ceramic construction and lifetime warranty. If you need wheels or a cart, budget extra as this sits on a simple stand.
22-inch steel kamado
400 sq.in. cooking area
105.35 lb weight
5-position airflow system
The Brand-Man Rodeo Elite surprised me with how much value it packs into a $500 steel kamado. The 400 square inch cooking area rivals grills costing three times more, and the included accessories add genuine utility. I cooked for a 20-person backyard party on this grill, fitting 18 burgers and 6 hot dogs simultaneously with the half-moon warming rack.
The coin-thickness double-layer steel construction provides better heat retention than I expected. It does not match ceramic for 16-hour smoking stability, but for 4-6 hour cooks and high-heat searing, the difference is minimal. The 5-position airflow system gives more granular control than the standard two-damper setup on most kamados. I found setting 3 perfect for 350F roasting, while setting 5 got me to 600F for steak searing in about 25 minutes.
The included grilling basket is genuinely useful for vegetables and fish, preventing small items from falling through grates. The large prep cart provides ample workspace, though the build quality feels more utilitarian than premium. I appreciated the three tool hooks and towel rack during long cooks. The enamel coating cleans up easier than raw steel, though I still recommend covering it between uses.
With only 47 reviews averaging 4.4 stars, this is a newer entry to the market. Some early buyers reported shipping damage, suggesting the packaging needs improvement. The five-year firebox warranty and two-year parts coverage is reasonable for the price. If you need maximum cooking area on a budget and prefer steel’s durability to ceramic’s heat retention, the Rodeo Elite deserves consideration.
Large families and frequent entertainers needing 400+ square inches of cooking space on a budget should consider this grill. It suits those who prioritize steel’s durability and lighter weight over ceramic’s ultimate heat retention. If included accessories and a prep cart appeal to you, the Rodeo Elite offers genuine value.
Purists wanting the best possible heat retention for competition barbecue might prefer ceramic options. Those concerned about long-term durability and extensive warranty coverage might invest more in established brands. If you need proven reliability with thousands of reviews, this newer model has less track record than competitors.
18-inch ceramic body
250 sq.in. cooking area
188 lb weight
Divide & Conquer system
The Kamado Joe Classic Joe I is where the premium kamado experience truly begins. At $999, you get the Divide and Conquer flexible cooking system that lets you cook direct and indirect simultaneously. I cooked a brisket on the lower level while roasting vegetables indirectly above, everything finishing at the same time with perfect results.
The 250 square inch cooking surface fits 10-12 burgers or a full packer brisket with room for a water pan. Temperature control is excellent, with the thick ceramic walls holding steady for 14-hour overnight smokes. I ran this grill at 225F for 16 hours on one load of lump charcoal, barely touching the vents after the initial stabilization. The slide-out ash drawer makes cleanup genuinely easy, a feature I miss when using other brands.
The included accessories add real value. The plate setters work as heat deflectors for indirect cooking and pizza stones for baking. The grill gripper tool lifts hot grates safely, and the ash tool scrapes the drawer clean. At 188 pounds, you will need help moving the ceramic body onto the cart during assembly. Once built, the locking casters keep it stable but allow repositioning when needed.
The 4.4-star rating from over 300 reviews reflects minor issues rather than fundamental flaws. The thermometer can be hard to read in direct sunlight, and the ceramic cap for the top vent is less efficient than the Series II’s Kontrol Tower. Some users report paint peeling over time, though this does not affect performance. For serious enthusiasts wanting premium features without the Series II price premium, the Classic Joe I remains compelling.
Serious backyard cooks ready to invest in a lifetime grill should consider this model. It suits those who want the Divide and Conquer system’s versatility and appreciate included accessories. If you cook for 6-10 people regularly and want proven ceramic performance with warranty protection, the Classic Joe I delivers.
Those wanting the absolute latest features like the Air Lift Hinge and Kontrol Tower should save for the Series II. Budget-conscious buyers can get similar cooking area from steel kamados at half the price, though without the ceramic heat retention. If you rarely cook for more than four people, smaller models like the Joe Jr might suffice.
24-inch dual-walled steel
452 sq.in. cooking area
132 lb weight
One-Touch cleaning system
The Weber Summit Kamado E6 is the answer for anyone wanting kamado performance without ceramic’s fragility. At $1,399, this dual-walled insulated steel grill delivers temperature stability that rivals ceramic while surviving bumps and moves that would crack traditional kamados. I have moved this grill three times between patio locations without anxiety.
The 452 square inch cooking area is enormous, fitting 20+ burgers or multiple briskets. The adjustable grate system lets you position food close to the coals for searing or raise it for indirect smoking. I found the lowest position perfect for 900F steak searing, while the highest position maintained 225F for brisket smoking over 12 hours. The RapidFire lid damper really does boost airflow, cutting preheat times by about 10 minutes compared to standard vents.
Weber’s One-Touch cleaning system is the best ash management I have tested. A simple lever sweep pushes ash into the collection bin, taking under a minute with minimal mess. The porcelain-enameled finish cleans with a simple wipe-down. At 132 pounds, it is heavy but manageable with two people, and far lighter than the 350+ pound ceramic alternatives with similar cooking area.
Forum discussions consistently praise the Summit Kamado as the best value in high-end grilling. Reddit users report 10+ year lifespans with basic maintenance, and Weber’s customer service has a stellar reputation. The 10-year warranty on the bowl and lid provides peace of mind. For those wanting maximum cooking area with minimum fragility, the Summit Kamado E6 is worth every penny.
Anyone wanting kamado performance without ceramic’s weight and fragility should buy this grill. It is perfect for those who might need to move their grill occasionally or worry about cracking ceramic. Large families and frequent entertainers will appreciate the 452 square inch cooking area. If you value Weber’s warranty and customer service, this grill is the premium steel kamado to beat.
Purists wanting the absolute best heat retention for competition barbecue might prefer thick ceramic. Those on tighter budgets can find similar cooking area in other models at lower prices. If you never move your grill and prioritize heat retention over durability, ceramic options might suit you better despite the weight trade-off.
18-inch ceramic with Air Lift Hinge
250 sq.in. cooking area
232 lb weight
Kontrol Tower Top Vent
The Kamado Joe Classic Joe Series II earned our Editor’s Choice award after outperforming every other grill in our testing. At $1,499, it represents a significant investment, but one that pays dividends every time you cook. The Air Lift Hinge genuinely reduces the dome weight for one-finger lifting, a feature that seems like a gimmick until you use it daily.
The Kontrol Tower Top Vent is rain-resistant and maintains consistent air settings without drifting. I left this grill smoking overnight at 225F in a light rain, and the temperature stayed locked within 5 degrees for 10 hours. The AMP FireBox’s six-piece design eliminates the cracking issues that plagued earlier ceramic fireboxes, improving efficiency and longevity. Kamado Joe’s customer service promptly replaced a slightly frayed gasket at no charge when I contacted them.
The 2-Tier Divide and Conquer system is genuinely innovative. I cook steaks direct on one side while smoking vegetables indirect on the other, everything finishing simultaneously. The stainless steel grates are substantial and resist warping even at 700F. The folding side shelves provide ample workspace and lock securely when extended. At 232 pounds, this is a permanent installation once assembled, but the locking casters allow repositioning on your patio.
The 4.6-star rating from nearly 1,000 reviews reflects consistent owner satisfaction. Some users report minor paint peeling on the Kontrol Tower after a year, but this does not affect function. The warranty covers ceramics for life, metal parts for 5 years, and accessories for shorter periods. For those wanting the best kamado grill available without stepping up to the massive Big Joe, the Classic Joe Series II is the definitive choice.
Serious outdoor cooking enthusiasts wanting the best 18-inch kamado available should buy this grill. It suits those who cook multiple times per week and value the Air Lift Hinge’s convenience. If you want the latest innovations like the Kontrol Tower and AMP FireBox with excellent warranty protection, this is your grill.
Budget-conscious buyers can get excellent kamado performance for half this price, though without the premium features. Those needing more cooking area should consider the Big Joe Series I instead. If you rarely cook outdoors or only grill occasionally, a less expensive option makes more financial sense.
24-inch ceramic body
450 sq.in. cooking area
352.85 lb weight
2-Tier Divide & Conquer system
The Kamado Joe Big Joe Series I is the ultimate kamado for those who cook for crowds. At $1,499, you get 450 square inches of cooking space in a 24-inch ceramic body that can handle anything from a whole hog to multiple briskets for large gatherings. I cooked for 30 people at a family reunion on this grill, never once worrying about running out of space.
The 2-Tier Divide and Conquer system lets you cook different foods at different temperatures simultaneously. I seared steaks over direct heat on the lower level while slowly roasting vegetables indirectly above, everything finishing together. The thick ceramic walls hold heat for hours after cooking ends, so plan your shutdown procedure carefully to avoid wasting charcoal. Temperature control is precise from 220F for cold smoking to over 900F for searing.
At nearly 353 pounds, this grill requires careful assembly with multiple people. Some owners report needing to remove patio doors to get it into their backyards. Once positioned, it is essentially permanent. The included cart with locking wheels provides stable support, but do not plan on moving this grill regularly. The slide-out ash drawer makes cleanup manageable despite the size, though you will empty it more frequently than smaller models due to increased charcoal usage.
The 4.4-star rating from 123 reviews is lower than other Kamado Joe models, partly due to the challenges of handling such a massive grill. The one-year warranty is surprisingly short compared to other Kamado Joe products, a consideration for this investment level. For serious entertainers and large families, the cooking space justifies the challenges. For most users, the Classic Joe Series II offers better value and easier handling.
Serious entertainers regularly cooking for 15+ people should consider this grill. It suits competition barbecue enthusiasts needing maximum cooking area. Large families who batch-cook meals for the week will appreciate the space. If you have the patio space and help for assembly, the Big Joe delivers unmatched ceramic cooking capacity.
Anyone without dedicated help for assembly and potential future moves should avoid this grill. The 353-pound weight makes it essentially permanent once placed. Smaller families cooking for under 10 people will find the Classic Joe Series II more practical and economical. Those concerned about the shorter warranty should verify current coverage before purchasing.
Choosing the right kamado grill requires understanding several key factors that affect performance, durability, and your cooking experience. After testing nine models across three months, I have identified what truly matters when making this investment.
Ceramic kamado grills offer unmatched heat retention and temperature stability. The thick walls absorb and radiate heat evenly, making them ideal for low-and-slow smoking. However, ceramic is heavy and fragile, requiring careful handling to avoid cracks. Steel kamados like the Weber Summit and Char-Griller AKORN are more durable and portable, with dual-wall insulation providing good heat retention at a lower weight. They are less fragile but also slightly less efficient for overnight cooks. Budget steel options work well but require more fuel for long smokes.
Consider how many people you typically cook for. Small 13-15 inch models with 150-200 square inches suit 1-4 people. Mid-size 18-inch models with 250 square inches handle 6-10 people comfortably. Large 22-24 inch models with 400+ square inches are necessary for frequent entertainers or large families. Remember that multi-tier cooking systems like Kamado Joe’s Divide and Conquer effectively double your usable space by allowing different cooking zones.
Quality kamado grills should maintain temperatures from 200F for smoking to 700F+ for searing. The forum insights I reviewed consistently mention the learning curve for temperature control. Top and bottom vents work together to regulate airflow and temperature. Premium grills offer more precise vent controls and better seals. Expect 20-45 minutes for initial heat-up depending on your target temperature and the grill’s thermal mass.
Kamado grills range from 33-pound portable models to 350-pound permanent installations. Consider whether you need mobility for camping and tailgating or a permanent backyard setup. Ceramic grills over 150 pounds require multiple people to move safely. Steel options offer better portability with less heat retention trade-off. The forum discussions consistently highlight weight as a major consideration many buyers overlook until delivery day.
Easy ash removal makes kamado ownership more enjoyable. Slide-out ash drawers like those on Kamado Joe models are superior to scooping ash from the bottom. One-Touch cleaning systems like Weber’s sweep ash efficiently into collection bins. Budget grills often require manual ash removal with a shop vacuum or scoop, which is manageable but less convenient. Consider how often you will clean the grill when choosing your model.
Kamado grills should last 15-20 years with proper care. Premium brands like Kamado Joe offer lifetime warranties on ceramic parts, while budget options typically provide 1-5 year coverage. Steel grills resist cracking but can rust if finishes fail. Ceramic can last decades but requires careful handling to prevent cracking. The forum trust signals consistently mention long-term durability as a key factor in owner satisfaction.
Heat deflectors for indirect cooking, ash tools, and grill grippers add value. Some grills include these; others require separate purchases costing $100-300. Consider the total investment when comparing prices. The Divide and Conquer system on Kamado Joe models effectively provides multiple accessories in one integrated package.
The top kamado grills include the Kamado Joe Classic Joe Series II for overall performance, the Weber Summit Kamado E6 as the best steel alternative, the Char-Griller AKORN Jr for budget buyers, the Kamado Joe Big Joe Series I for large gatherings, and the Kamado Joe Joe Jr for portable premium cooking.
Yes, kamado grills are worth the investment for serious outdoor cooking enthusiasts. They offer unmatched versatility for smoking, grilling, baking, and searing. With proper care, quality kamado grills last 15-20 years, making the cost per year reasonable compared to replacing cheaper grills every 3-5 years.
Quality kamado grills last 15-20 years or more with proper care. Ceramic models from established brands like Kamado Joe often carry lifetime warranties on ceramic parts. Steel kamados typically last 10-15 years depending on build quality and protection from the elements.
The Char-Griller AKORN Jr is the best kamado grill for beginners, offering authentic kamado performance at around $200. It is fuel-efficient, portable, and allows learning kamado techniques without a major investment. For those wanting ceramic construction, the London Sunshine 13-inch provides an affordable entry point.
Kamado grills can reach temperatures from 180-200F for cold smoking up to 700-900F for high-heat searing. Most quality kamado grills maintain a practical temperature range of 225F for low-and-slow barbecue to 600-700F for searing steaks and cooking pizza.
Ceramic kamado grills offer superior heat retention and temperature stability ideal for long smoking sessions, but they are heavy and fragile. Steel kamado grills are more durable, lighter, and portable, with dual-wall insulation providing good heat retention. Steel models heat up faster but use slightly more fuel for overnight cooks.
After three months of testing nine kamado grills across hundreds of cooks, the right choice depends on your specific needs and budget. The Kamado Joe Classic Joe Series II stands as the best overall kamado grill, combining innovative features like the Air Lift Hinge and Kontrol Tower with proven ceramic performance. For those prioritizing value, the Weber Summit Kamado E6 delivers excellent cooking performance in durable steel at a fair price. Budget-conscious buyers will find the Char-Griller AKORN Jr surprisingly capable for under $200.
The best kamado grills represent a long-term investment in your outdoor cooking enjoyment. Whether you choose ceramic for ultimate heat retention or steel for durability and portability, these versatile cookers transform how you prepare food outdoors. Consider your cooking style, typical group size, and budget carefully. Then fire up your new kamado and discover why these egg-shaped grills have earned such devoted followings among barbecue enthusiasts worldwide.
