“Big Green Egg vs Kamado Joe: The Ultimate Showdown of Ceramic Grills. Discover the top contenders in the world of kamado-style cooking as we compare the renowned Big Green Egg and Kamado Joe. Get ready to unlock the secrets behind these premium ceramic grills and make an informed decision for your next outdoor culinary adventure!”
Kamado Grills: A Basic Overview
Kamado grills are a type of grill that is oval-shaped, resembling an urn or an egg. They use charcoal as both the heat source and smoke source, and their design allows for excellent heat distribution and retention. These grills function like convection ovens, surrounding the food with hot air to cook it evenly and quickly.
Modern kamado grills are made from high-quality refractory ceramic material, ensuring durability, heat retention, and maximum smoke infusion. They come in various sizes to accommodate different cooking needs, and many models have porcelain glazes for improved heat retention.
The concept of kamado-style cooking originated in Japan during the Kofun period. The traditional Japanese mushikamado rice cooker was made from ceramic materials and had an egg-like shape, providing excellent insulation for steady temperature control. This innovative design allowed for efficient fuel consumption and versatile cooking methods.
The modern iteration of kamado grills was brought to the United States by American soldiers stationed in Japan during World War II. Entrepreneurs like Ed Fisher saw the potential in these cookers and began importing them to the US. Fisher later founded Big Green Egg in 1974, further popularizing kamado grills in America.
Kamado Joe is another prominent manufacturer of kamado-style grills. Founded in 2009 by Bobby Brennan and Kerry Coker, Kamado Joe quickly established itself as a leading brand with its focus on build quality and innovative features that enhance the grilling experience.
While neither Kamado Joe nor Big Green Egg manufacture their grills in the USA, both brands prioritize quality and functionality. Kamado Joe grills are manufactured in Yixing, China, while Big Green Eggs are made in Monterrey, Mexico by Daltile.
What Is A Kamado-Style Grill?
A kamado-style grill is a type of grill that is oval-shaped, much like an urn or an egg. It uses charcoal as its heat source as well as smoke source and its workings are akin to that of a convection oven—it surrounds the food with hot air in order to cook it evenly and quickly. Kamado grills are made out of a high-quality refractory ceramic material that ensures terrific build-quality and durability as well as maximum heat and smoke retention.
Kamado grills derive their name from a traditional Japanese cooking appliance that was used during the Kofun period (250-538 AD). Known as a mushikamado rice cooker, this appliance was made from a ceramic material such as clay and was shaped like a large egg, which allowed for unique cooking benefits. The concept of the mushikamado rice cooker was brought to the United States by American soldiers who were stationed in Japan at the time of World War II. It is then that entrepreneurs like Ed Fisher, the mastermind behind Big Green Egg, gave it the shape and form of the modern kamado grill as we know it.
Kamado Joe is easily one of the fastest-growing and most popular names in the charcoal ceramic grill industry. Founded in 2009 by Bobby Brennan and Kerry Coker, Kamado Joe has dedicated themselves to constantly coming up with improvements and distinctive features for their grills. Some unique features of Kamado Joe grills include their patented Divide and Conquer cooking system, slide-out ash drawer, Kontrol Tower top vent, and Air Lift hinge. These grills are known for their durable build, excellent heat retention, and fuel efficiency.
The modern form and popularity of kamado grills in the United States are, to a great extent, courtesy of Ed Fisher, the founder of Big Green Egg. Made out of NASA-inspired ceramics, these grills are known for their solid construction and performance regardless of weather conditions. Some patented features of Big Green Egg grills include a draft door and a temperature control rEGGulator. These grills offer fantastic cooking performance and have become the choice of Michelin star restaurants.
Neither Kamado Joe nor Big Green Egg manufacture their grills in the USA. Kamado Joe grills are manufactured in Yixing, China, while Big Green Eggs are manufactured in Monterrey, Mexico by Daltile, a renowned ceramics and porcelain company. However, both brands prioritize quality and functionality in their grills.
Kamado-style grills offer versatility when it comes to cooking. They can be used to cook anything from ribs and brisket to poultry such as chicken and turkey. Additionally, kamado grills can also be used to make pizza. Both Kamado Joe and Big Green Egg offer different models with various features to suit different cooking needs.
The History of the Kamado Grill
The legacy of kamado-style cooking dates back several thousand years and has evolved significantly over time. The concept originated during the Kofun period in Japan (250-538 AD), with a ceramic rice cooker known as mushikamado. This unique appliance, shaped like an egg or urn, featured excellent insulation and fuel efficiency, allowing for consistent and efficient cooking.
During World War II, American soldiers stationed in Japan encountered the mushikamado cooker and brought it back to the United States. Entrepreneur Ed Fisher recognized its potential and began importing them to his storefront in Atlanta. He later founded Big Green Egg in 1974, which became the dominant supplier of ceramic grills in the US.
In 2009, Bobby Brennan and Kerry Coker founded Kamado Joe, aiming to create a better ceramic grill than what was available on the market. Their dedication to innovation and quality quickly established Kamado Joe as a leading name in the industry.
Kamado Joe History
Kamado Joe was founded in 2009 by Bobby Brennan and Kerry Coker. Both co-founders left their corporate careers to pursue their passion for BBQ and create a better ceramic grill than what was available on the market. They focused on improving the grilling experience and overall cookout quality of life.
Kamado Joe quickly gained a strong reputation for its fantastic build quality and innovative features. The brand introduced unique features such as the patented Divide and Conquer cooking system, slide-out ash drawer, Kontrol Tower top vent, and Air Lift hinge. These features enhance usability, ease of cleaning, and overall durability of the grills.
Big Green Egg History
The modern kamado grill as we know it is the brainchild of Ed Fisher, a Pachinko game importer who later went on to found Big Green Egg in the year 1974. One of the first people to see the immense potential of the Japanese mushikamado, he imported them to his storefront in Atlanta and eventually began to improve on the existing construction. Following this, he entered into private manufacturing in the 90s and made quite the ripple with his brand, Big Green Egg.
The current form and popularity of kamado grills in the United States are, therefore, to a great extent, courtesy of Ed Fisher. To this day, Big Green Egg remains the dominant supplier of ceramic grills in the US and the choice of Michelin star restaurants. Made out of NASA-inspired ceramics, these grills are vegan-friendly and organic. The patented features of these egg grills include a draft door and a temperature control rEGGulator that make them user-friendly and much more convenient. All these properties together deliver a fantastic cooking performance with each use.
Does Kamado Joe and Big Green Egg Manufacture in the USA?
Both Kamado Joe and Big Green Egg do not manufacture their grills in the USA. Kamado Joe grills are manufactured in Yixing, China, while Big Green Eggs are produced in Monterrey, Mexico by the company Daltile. Although they are not made locally, both brands have established a strong reputation for their quality and functionality.
Best Foods to Cook in a Kamado Grill
Kamado grills offer exceptional versatility and can be used to cook a wide range of delicious foods. Some of the best foods to cook in a kamado grill include:
1. Ribs: Kamado grills are perfect for slow-cooking ribs to tender perfection. The even heat distribution and retention of these grills ensure that your ribs are cooked evenly and infused with smoky flavor.
2. Brisket: Brisket requires low and slow cooking, making it ideal for kamado grills. The ceramic walls of these grills hold heat exceptionally well, allowing you to achieve the perfect level of tenderness in your brisket.
3. Pulled Pork: Kamado grills excel at cooking pulled pork, thanks to their ability to maintain consistent temperatures over long periods of time. This results in juicy, flavorful pulled pork that will impress your guests.
4. Poultry: Whether you’re cooking chicken or turkey, kamado grills deliver excellent results. The high heat retention ensures that poultry is cooked thoroughly and retains its natural juices.
5. Pizza: Kamado grills can reach high temperatures, making them perfect for baking crispy pizzas with perfectly melted cheese and toppings.
6. Vegetables: Grilling vegetables on a kamado grill adds a delicious smoky flavor while maintaining their crispness. From asparagus to bell peppers, kamado grills can enhance the flavors of various vegetables.
7. Baking: Kamado grills function like convection ovens, making them great for baking bread, cakes, and other baked goods.
8. Seafood: Grilling seafood on a kamado grill imparts a unique smoky flavor that enhances its natural taste. Whether you’re grilling fish, shrimp, or scallops, kamado grills can elevate your seafood dishes.
9. Steaks: Kamado grills can sear steaks at high temperatures, creating a delicious crust while maintaining the perfect level of doneness inside.
10. Smoked Foods: Kamado grills excel at smoking foods such as salmon, bacon, and even cheese. The charcoal and smoke source combined with the excellent heat retention of these grills create rich and flavorful smoked dishes.
Product Lines at a Glance
Kamado Joe offers a range of kamado grills, including the Big Joe series and the Classic series. The Big Joe series features large grills with ample space for cooking for a large gathering of people. The Big Joe I, II, and III models come with various innovative features such as the Divide and Conquer cooking system, slide-out ash drawer, Kontrol Tower top vent, and Air Lift hinge. The Classic series includes the Classic I, II, and III models, which offer a smaller size but still deliver excellent performance. These models also come with features like split heat deflectors and sturdy ceramic construction.
Big Green Egg is known for its iconic green egg-shaped grills that come in different sizes to suit different needs. The brand offers three main sizes: MiniMax, Medium, and Large. The MiniMax is a compact grill perfect for small gatherings or portable use. The Medium size provides more cooking space without being too bulky. The Large size offers the most cooking area and is ideal for larger groups or those who enjoy hosting outdoor events. All Big Green Egg grills are made with premium quality ceramics and feature patented draft doors and temperature control rEGGulators.
Kamado Joe
Kamado Joe is a rapidly growing and highly popular brand in the charcoal ceramic grill industry. Established in 2009 by Bobby Brennan and Kerry Coker, Kamado Joe quickly gained a strong reputation for its exceptional build quality and innovative features. The founders’ dedication to creating a superior ceramic grill led them to leave their corporate careers behind and focus on improving the grilling experience.
Kamado Joe grills are known for their unique features, including the patented Divide and Conquer cooking system, slide-out ash drawer, Kontrol Tower top vent, and Air Lift hinge. These features make Kamado Joe grills easy to use and clean, while also providing excellent heat and moisture retention. The grills are built to last with durable construction materials, ensuring long-term functionality.
Big Joe Series
The Big Joe series features kamado grills that have an assembled width of up to 58 inches and a firebox width of 24 inches, giving you ample room to cook all your favorite foods in one go. There are three different models in the series—Big Joe I, II, and III. These models share the standard Kamado Joe features with a thick-walled, heat resistant shell with a cart and locking wheels, stainless steel cooking grates, a built-in thermometer, finished folding side shelves and handles, ash tool, the patented slide-out ash drawer, and a grill gripper.
The Big Joe I and II have a 2-tier Divide and Conquer flexible cooking system, while Big Joe III has an extra tier for added flexibility. The wire-mesh fiberglass gasket present in Big Joe II and III ensures a tight seal and is much more durable. The Kontrol tower top vent on the Big Joe I slides open when the lid is fully open. This issue has been dealt with nicely in the next two models with the patented Kontrol Tower Top Vent.
While the first and second models have a simple yet sturdy cast iron cart and wheels, the cart for the Big Joe III has been upgraded to a heavy-duty galvanized steel build for enhanced support. The SloRoller hyperbolic chamber insert and stainless steel charcoal basket are also fine additions to the Big Joe III.
Classic Joe Series
The Classic Joe series from Kamado Joe is known for its versatility and exceptional cooking performance. With three different models to choose from, namely the Classic I, II, and III, these grills offer a range of features to enhance your outdoor cooking experience. Each model in the Classic Joe series features a split heat deflector accessory and a sturdy ceramic build for excellent heat retention.
The design of the smoking vents and wire mesh fiberglass gasket varies between the models. The Classic I has a simple yet effective design with cast iron cart and wheels, while the Classic II introduces the patented Kontrol Tower Top Vent for improved airflow control. The Classic III further upgrades the cart to heavy-duty galvanized steel for added support.
Other features shared by all models in the Classic Joe series include stainless steel cooking grates, built-in thermometer, finished folding side shelves and handles, ash tool, slide-out ash drawer, and grill gripper. These grills provide ample space for cooking with an 18-inch firebox width and an assembled width of up to 47 inches. Whether you’re grilling, smoking, baking, or roasting, the Classic Joe series delivers exceptional results every time.
Junior Series
The Junior series is the smallest and most compact line of kamado grills offered by both Kamado Joe and Big Green Egg. These grills are perfect for individuals or small families who want to enjoy the benefits of kamado-style cooking but have limited space.
Kamado Joe offers the Junior Joe, which has a firebox width of 13.5 inches and an assembled width of 16 inches. It features a durable ceramic build, stainless steel cooking grates, and a built-in thermometer. The Junior Joe is designed to be portable and comes with a sturdy handle for easy transportation.
Big Green Egg offers the MiniMax, which has a firebox width of 13 inches and an assembled width of 19.5 inches. It also features a ceramic build, stainless steel cooking grates, and a built-in thermometer. The MiniMax is slightly larger than the Junior Joe and offers more cooking space.
Both the Junior Joe and MiniMax are versatile grills that can be used for grilling, smoking, baking, and roasting. They provide excellent heat retention and distribution, allowing for even cooking results. Whether you choose Kamado Joe or Big Green Egg, the Junior series is a great option for those with limited space or smaller cooking needs.
Pellet Joe Grill
Kamado Joe does not currently manufacture a pellet grill. They are known for their ceramic kamado grills, which use charcoal as the heat source. However, they do offer a variety of accessories and additional components to enhance the functionality of their grills.
Big Green Egg
Founded in 1974, Big Green Egg is one of the pioneers in manufacturing kamado-style grills. The company’s founder, Ed Fisher, recognized the potential of the Japanese mushikamado and imported them to Atlanta. Over time, Fisher made improvements to the design and eventually began manufacturing his own grills. Today, Big Green Egg remains a dominant supplier of ceramic grills in the US and is even favored by Michelin star restaurants.
The grills are made using NASA-inspired ceramics, which provide excellent heat retention and moisture control. The exterior of the grills is bright green and glazed to prevent fading or discoloration. With their solid construction, Big Green Egg grills perform well in all weather conditions and are suitable for year-round use. The thick ceramic walls ensure consistent temperature within the cooking chamber while consuming minimal fuel.
Big Green Eggs are known for their versatility and can be used for various cooking methods including roasting, grilling, baking, smoking, and even making pizza. The grills come in different sizes to cater to different needs. The largest model in their lineup is the Big Joe series, which offers ample space for cooking large quantities of food. It features a thick-walled shell with stainless steel cooking grates, built-in thermometer, folding side shelves and handles, ash tool, slide-out ash drawer, and grill gripper.
XL Big Green Egg
The XL Big Green Egg is the largest model in the Big Green Egg lineup, offering an impressive 24-inch firebox width and an assembled width of up to 61 inches. It is perfect for those who need to cook large quantities of food or want to grill or smoke whole cuts of meat. The XL Big Green Egg comes with all the standard features of the Classic series, including a sturdy ceramic build, split heat deflector accessory, and wire mesh fiberglass gasket for a tight seal. It also includes a stainless steel cooking grid and a built-in thermometer for precise temperature control. Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue or catering an event, the XL Big Green Egg has the size and capability to handle it all.
Large Big Green Egg
The large Big Green Egg is the most popular and versatile size in the Big Green Egg lineup. With an 18-inch firebox width and an assembled width of up to 47 inches, this grill provides ample space for cooking a variety of foods. The large Big Green Egg comes in three different models: Classic I, II, and III.
All models feature a sturdy ceramic build that retains maximum heat and moisture for consistent cooking. They also include a split heat deflector accessory, allowing for indirect cooking methods like smoking or roasting. The design of the smoking vents and wire mesh fiberglass gasket varies slightly between each model, with the later versions featuring improvements for better performance.
The large Big Green Egg is equipped with stainless steel cooking grates, a built-in thermometer, folding side shelves and handles for convenience, an ash tool for easy cleaning, and a grill gripper for safe handling. It also has a draft door and temperature control rEGGulator to help regulate heat flow.
Overall, the large Big Green Egg offers a superior cooking experience with its exceptional heat retention and durability. Whether you’re grilling burgers or slow-cooking ribs, this kamado grill can deliver delicious results every time.
Small Big Green Egg
The Small Big Green Egg is the smallest model in the Big Green Egg line. With an assembled width of 21 inches and a firebox width of 13 inches, it is compact and portable, making it perfect for tailgating or small gatherings. Despite its size, it still retains all the features that make Big Green Egg grills exceptional. The Small Big Green Egg comes with a stainless steel cooking grate, a built-in thermometer, foldable side shelves and handles, an ash tool, and the patented slide-out ash drawer. It also has a top vent for temperature control. This model is ideal for those who want the versatility and high-quality cooking performance of a kamado grill but have limited space or need a portable option.
Kamado Joe vs. Big Green Egg Shootout
When it comes to the ultimate showdown between Kamado Joe and Big Green Egg, there are a few key factors to consider. Both brands offer top-of-the-line ceramic grills with exceptional build quality and innovative features. However, there are some distinct differences that set them apart.
One of the standout features of Kamado Joe grills is their patented Divide and Conquer cooking system, which allows for flexible cooking configurations. They also have a slide-out ash drawer, Kontrol Tower top vent, and Air Lift hinge for added convenience. The attention to detail in Kamado Joe grills is evident, and they are known for their durability and excellent heat retention.
On the other hand, Big Green Egg has a long-standing reputation as the dominant supplier of ceramic grills in the US. Their grills are made with NASA-inspired ceramics and feature a draft door and temperature control rEGGulator for easy use. The bright green exterior of Big Green Egg grills not only adds aesthetic appeal but also helps prevent fading or discoloring.
In terms of manufacturing location, Kamado Joe grills are made in Yixing, China while Big Green Eggs are manufactured in Monterrey, Mexico by Daltile. While some may have concerns about Chinese manufacturing, Kamado Joe grills have proven their quality over time.
In conclusion, both Kamado Joe and Big Green Egg offer exceptional kamado-style grills with unique features and outstanding performance. Ultimately, the choice between the two will come down to personal preference and specific needs.
Features
– Kamado Joe grills are known for their unique features, such as the patented Divide and Conquer cooking system, slide-out ash drawer, Kontrol Tower top vent, and Air Lift hinge. These features make these grills easy to use and clean.
– Big Green Egg grills also have their own set of patented features, including a draft door and temperature control rEGGulator. These features make the grills user-friendly and convenient.
– Both brands use high-quality ceramics in the construction of their grills, ensuring excellent heat retention and durability.
– Kamado Joe offers a range of models with different sizes and configurations to suit various cooking needs. The Big Joe series is ideal for large gatherings, while the Classic series offers a more compact option.
– Accessories can be purchased for both brands to enhance the functionality of the grills.
Overall, both Kamado Joe and Big Green Egg offer feature-rich grills that provide exceptional cooking performance. The choice between them ultimately comes down to personal preference and specific needs.
Venting:
Kamado Joe grills feature a Kontrol Tower top vent, which allows for precise temperature control. The vent can be easily adjusted to increase or decrease airflow, allowing for fine-tuning of cooking temperatures. The design of the vent also prevents rain from entering the grill, ensuring consistent heat and smoke retention.
On the other hand, Big Green Egg grills have a draft door and a temperature control rEGGulator. The draft door allows for easy adjustment of airflow, while the rEGGulator helps regulate the temperature inside the grill. Both features contribute to excellent heat control and allow users to achieve their desired cooking results.
In terms of venting, both brands offer effective solutions that enable users to maintain consistent temperatures throughout their cooking process. Whether it’s the Kontrol Tower top vent of Kamado Joe or the draft door and rEGGulator of Big Green Egg, these features ensure optimal airflow and heat distribution for exceptional grilling and smoking outcomes.
Lid Hinge:
Kamado Joe features an Air Lift hinge system, which allows for easy and smooth opening and closing of the lid. This feature is designed to reduce the weight of the lid, making it effortless to lift even with one hand. The Air Lift hinge also ensures that the lid stays in place when open, providing convenient access to the cooking chamber.
On the other hand, Big Green Egg uses a spring-assisted hinge system. This hinge provides similar functionality as the Air Lift hinge, allowing for easy operation of the lid. It provides a balanced and controlled lifting experience, ensuring that the lid doesn’t slam shut unexpectedly.
Both Kamado Joe and Big Green Egg have well-designed lid hinges that make cooking with their grills a hassle-free experience. Whether you prefer the Air Lift hinge of Kamado Joe or the spring-assisted hinge of Big Green Egg depends on your personal preference.
Thermometer:
Both Kamado Joe and Big Green Egg grills come with built-in thermometers. These thermometers are essential for monitoring the temperature inside the grill while cooking. They provide accurate temperature readings, allowing you to adjust the heat as needed to achieve perfect results. The thermometers on both brands are reliable and easy to read, ensuring that you have full control over your cooking process.
Kamado Joe grills feature a built-in thermometer located on the top vent or lid of the grill. This allows you to easily check the temperature without opening the lid and losing heat. The thermometer is usually large and clear, making it convenient to monitor the cooking temperature.
On the other hand, Big Green Egg grills also come with a built-in thermometer located on the lid of the grill. It provides accurate temperature readings and is easy to read. The thermometer is designed to withstand high temperatures and ensure precise cooking control.
Both Kamado Joe and Big Green Egg grills offer reliable thermometers that help you achieve optimal cooking results by maintaining consistent temperatures throughout your cook.
Ash Removal:
Both Kamado Joe and Big Green Egg offer convenient ash removal systems for their kamado grills.
Kamado Joe features a patented slide-out ash drawer, which allows for easy and quick removal of ash without having to disassemble the grill. This feature saves time and effort during cleanup and ensures a hassle-free cooking experience.
Big Green Egg, on the other hand, does not have a slide-out ash drawer but provides an ash removal tool called the ash tool. This tool allows users to easily scrape out the accumulated ash from the bottom of the grill.
Overall, both brands offer effective solutions for ash removal, with Kamado Joe’s slide-out ash drawer providing a slightly more convenient option.
Grates:
Both Kamado Joe and Big Green Egg offer high-quality grates for their kamado grills. Kamado Joe grills come with stainless steel cooking grates that are durable and easy to clean. These grates provide excellent heat distribution and retention, ensuring even cooking. On the other hand, Big Green Egg grills feature a cast iron cooking grate, which is known for its superior heat retention and searing capabilities. Cast iron grates also develop a natural non-stick surface over time, enhancing the flavor of the food.
Kamado Joe stands out with its patented Divide and Conquer cooking system, which allows you to cook different foods at different temperatures simultaneously. This flexible system includes multi-level racks that can be adjusted to create separate cooking zones within the grill. It provides versatility and convenience, enabling you to cook a variety of dishes at once.
Big Green Egg does not have a similar proprietary system but offers accessories like the convEGGtor (heat deflector) and cooking grids that allow for indirect cooking or smoking on multiple levels.
Cleaning out ash from a kamado grill can be a tedious task. Kamado Joe simplifies this process with its slide-out ash drawer design. This feature allows you to easily remove accumulated ash without having to disassemble the entire grill.
Big Green Egg does not have an ash drawer, but it provides an ash tool that helps in removing ash from the bottom vent.
Both Kamado Joe and Big Green Egg have top vents for controlling airflow and temperature regulation. Kamado Joe uses a Kontrol Tower top vent, which provides precise control over air intake and exhaust. It has an ergonomic design that makes adjustments effortless.
Big Green Egg uses a rEGGulator vent on its grills, which allows for easy temperature control. The rEGGulator features a clear, domed top that enables you to see and adjust the settings without lifting the lid.
Both Kamado Joe and Big Green Egg offer high-quality grates that ensure excellent cooking results. Kamado Joe’s Divide and Conquer cooking system provides added versatility, while Big Green Egg’s cast iron grate offers superior searing capabilities. Kamado Joe’s slide-out ash drawer simplifies ash removal, while Big Green Egg provides an ash tool for cleaning. Both brands have efficient ventilation control systems with unique features. Ultimately, the choice between Kamado Joe and Big Green Egg will depend on individual preferences and priorities in terms of cooking style and convenience.
Stand and Wheels:
Kamado Joe grills come with a sturdy cast iron cart and locking wheels, providing stability and easy mobility. The cart is designed to withstand the weight of the grill and can be easily moved around your outdoor cooking area. The wheels are durable and provide smooth maneuverability.
On the other hand, Big Green Egg grills have a heavy-duty galvanized steel cart for enhanced support. This upgraded cart provides added stability and durability. The locking wheels allow you to securely position the grill in place during cooking.
Both brands offer high-quality stands and wheels that ensure your kamado grill is secure and easy to move as needed.
Shelves and handles:
Shelves and handles:
Kamado Joe grills are equipped with finished folding side shelves and handles. These provide convenient space for prepping, cooking, and resting your food, as well as a sturdy grip for easy maneuvering of the grill. The shelves can be folded down when not in use to save space.
On the other hand, Big Green Egg grills also feature sturdy handles for easy lifting and carrying. However, they do not come with folding side shelves like Kamado Joe grills. This might be a slight disadvantage if you need extra workspace during your cooking sessions.
Overall, both brands offer reliable and functional shelves and handles, but Kamado Joe has the added advantage of folding side shelves for increased versatility.
Construction and Quality
Kamado Joe grills are known for their exceptional build quality. They are made from high-quality refractory ceramic material which ensures durability and heat retention. The grills feature a thick-walled, heat resistant shell that maintains consistent temperatures within the cooking chamber. Kamado Joe also offers a range of accessories and additional components to enhance the functionality of their grills.
Big Green Egg grills are also made from premium quality ceramics, inspired by NASA technology. These grills have a solid and rugged construction that performs well in all weather conditions. The thick ceramic walls retain maximum heat and moisture, resulting in a consistent temperature throughout the cooking process. Big Green Egg grills are built to last and are suitable for year-round use.
Accessories
Kamado Joe offers a wide range of accessories to enhance the functionality and versatility of their grills. Some popular accessories include the Kamado Joe Classic DoJoe, which allows you to turn your grill into a pizza oven, and the Kamado Joe Joetisserie, which enables rotisserie-style cooking. Other accessories include grill covers, grilling utensils, heat deflectors, and cast iron cooking grates.
Big Green Egg also provides a variety of accessories to complement their grills. The Big Green Egg ConvEGGtor is a must-have accessory for indirect cooking and smoking. The Big Green Egg Pizza & Baking Stone is perfect for making delicious pizzas and baked goods on your grill. Additional accessories include nest handlers for easy transportation, ash tools for cleaning, and temperature controllers for precise temperature control.
Support
Kamado grills are a growing niche in the barbecue community, offering impeccable heat distribution and retention for quick and even cooking. Both Kamado Joe and Big Green Egg are renowned manufacturers of kamado grills, with premium quality feature-rich products that embody all the best qualities of kamado grills.
Kamado Joe is known for its fantastic build quality and innovative features, such as the patented Divide and Conquer cooking system, slide-out ash drawer, Kontrol Tower top vent, and Air Lift hinge. These grills are durable, with excellent heat and moisture retention and fuel efficiency.
Big Green Egg is the dominant supplier of ceramic grills in the US, popular among Michelin star restaurants. Made out of NASA-inspired ceramics, these grills feature a draft door and temperature control rEGGulator for user-friendly convenience. They have a bright green exterior that is glazed to prevent fading or discoloring.
While neither Kamado Joe nor Big Green Egg manufacture their grills locally, Kamado Joe grills are manufactured in Yixing, China with uncompromising quality and functionality. Big Green Eggs are manufactured in Monterrey, Mexico by ceramics company Daltile.
Warranty
Kamado Joe offers a limited lifetime warranty on their ceramic parts, which covers any defects in materials and workmanship. This warranty is valid for the original owner of the grill and requires proof of purchase. Additionally, Kamado Joe provides a 5-year warranty on all metal and cast iron parts, including the cart and hinge assembly. The gaskets, thermometer, firebox, and fire ring are covered by a 3-year warranty.
Big Green Egg also offers a limited lifetime warranty on their ceramic parts, with coverage for any defects in materials and workmanship. This warranty is also valid for the original owner of the grill with proof of purchase. Big Green Egg provides a 5-year warranty on all metal parts and a 1-year warranty on the temperature gauge and other components.
Price and Overall Value
Kamado grills, including those from Kamado Joe and Big Green Egg, are known for their premium quality and durability. However, they also come with a higher price tag compared to other types of grills on the market. The cost of these grills varies depending on the size and model you choose.
Kamado Joe grills generally have a slightly higher price point compared to Big Green Egg grills. This is due to the additional features and innovations that Kamado Joe brings to their products. For example, Kamado Joe grills feature the patented Divide and Conquer cooking system, slide-out ash drawer, Kontrol Tower top vent, and Air Lift hinge. These unique features enhance the cooking experience and make the grills more convenient to use.
On the other hand, Big Green Egg grills offer excellent value for money considering their reputation in the industry. They are often considered as a long-term investment due to their exceptional build quality and performance. The construction of Big Green Egg grills using NASA-inspired ceramics ensures maximum heat retention and moisture control, resulting in consistent cooking temperatures and fuel efficiency.
Ultimately, when comparing the price and overall value of Kamado Joe and Big Green Egg grills, it comes down to personal preference and budget. Both brands offer high-quality products with unique features that cater to different needs and preferences of BBQ enthusiasts.
Final Verdict
Both Kamado Joe and Big Green Egg are reputable manufacturers of kamado grills, offering high-quality products that deliver exceptional results. When it comes to manufacturing location, Kamado Joe grills are made in Yixing, China, while Big Green Eggs are manufactured in Monterrey, Mexico.
Despite concerns about Chinese manufacturing, Kamado Joe grills have proven to be reliable and durable over time. Their feature-rich designs and attention to detail make them a popular choice among BBQ enthusiasts.
On the other hand, Big Green Eggs have a long-standing reputation as the dominant supplier of ceramic grills in the US. Their NASA-inspired ceramics and patented features contribute to their fantastic cooking performance.
In terms of versatility, both brands offer kamado grills that can cook a wide range of foods with perfection. Whether you’re grilling ribs, brisket, pulled pork, or even making pizza, these grills can handle it all.
In conclusion, choosing between Kamado Joe and Big Green Egg ultimately comes down to personal preference. Both brands offer top-of-the-line products with unique features and excellent cooking capabilities. Whichever brand you choose, you can expect a premium quality kamado grill that will enhance your outdoor cooking experience.
In conclusion, the Big Green Egg and Kamado Joe are both excellent options for those seeking a versatile and high-quality kamado-style grill. While the Big Green Egg offers a longer history and established reputation, the Kamado Joe provides innovative features at a more competitive price point. Ultimately, the choice between these two brands comes down to personal preference and specific needs.
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