Big Green Egg vs Kamado Joe: The Ultimate Grill Showdown

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Grilling season is upon us, and if you’re in the market for a new kamado grill, you may be wondering whether to go with the Big Green Egg or the Kamado Joe. Both are excellent grills, but there are some key differences between them that you’ll want to keep in mind as you make your decision.

The following is a comparison of the Big Green Egg and the Kamado Joe, highlighting some key differences between them.

Big Green Egg History?

The Big Green Egg was invented in the 1970s by a Korean-American named Ed Lee Fisher. He started out as a chicken farmer and eventually started making ceramic cookware. His first egg-shaped cooker was made from a recycled fire extinguisher.

 The company dominated the market for years, making the Egg the most popular kamado-style cooker.

How Does A Big Green Egg Work?

The Big Green Egg is a kamado-style cooker, which means it is a ceramic cooker that uses charcoal as its fuel source. The ceramic material is very good at insulating the heat, which allows you to cook at very high temperatures.

The Big Green Egg also has a very efficient airflow system that allows you to control the temperature well.

It works like this: you light a fire in the Big Green Egg using charcoal. The ceramic material of the Egg will heat up and start to cook your food. You can control the temperature by opening or closing the vents on the top and bottom of the cooker.

Kamado Joe History?

Kamado Joe was started in 2009 by two entrepreneurs who saw a better way to make and sell kamado-style grills. Their goal was to improve upon the design of traditional kamados and to create a product that would be more user-friendly and easier to sell.

Kamado Joe grills are made of thick-walled, heat-resistant ceramic that retains heat and moisture to produce tender, juicy food. The grills are equipped with a patented airflow system that allows users to control the temperature with precision, making it easy to cook low-and-slow or hot-and-fast.

Kamado Joe grills are available in a variety of sizes and styles, including the Classic, Big Joe, and Joe Jr. Kamado Joe also offers a line of accessories, including covers, racks, and a variety of tools and utensils.

What Makes Kamado Joe Grills Different?

Kamado Joe grills offer several features that set them apart from other kamado-style grills on the market. Kamado Joe grills are made of thick-walled, heat-resistant ceramic that retains heat and moisture to produce tender, juicy food.

The grills are equipped with a patented airflow system that allows users to control the temperature with precision, making it easy to cook low-and-slow or hot-and-fast.

How Does A Kamado Joe Work?

A Kamado Joe works by using a system of vents to regulate the airflow and temperature inside the grill. The bottom vent provides oxygen to the charcoal, which is needed for combustion. The top vent allows the grill to release excess heat and smoke and also regulates the amount of air that flows into the grill.

By regulating the airflow, a Kamado Joe can maintain a consistent temperature, which is necessary for grilling.

When ready to cook, you will need to light the charcoal in your Kamado Joe. There are several ways to do this, but the most common method is to use a charcoal chimney starter. Once the charcoal is lit, you will need to add it to the firebox of your grill.

You can do this by opening the bottom vent and dumping the lit charcoal into the firebox.

Once the charcoal is in the firebox, you will need to close the bottom vent. This will allow the grill to preheat. Once the grill is preheated, you can open the top vent to release any excess heat or smoke. You will also want to open the top vent when ready to cook so that the grill can regulate the temperature.

When ready to cook, you will need to place your food on the grill grates. You can either cook directly on the grates or use a grill basket. If you are using a grill basket, you will want to ensure that the food is not touching the sides of the basket, as this can cause it to stick.

Once your food is on the grill, you will want to close the lid. This will help to trap the heat inside the grill and cook your food evenly. You will also want to check on your food periodically so that you can ensure that it is cooking evenly.

When your food is cooked, you can remove it from the grill and serve it. You can also keep the food warm on the grill by closing the lid and turning off the heat. This will allow you to serve your food hot or at room temperature.

A Kamado Joe is a great way to cook food evenly and efficiently.

By regulating the airflow and temperature, you can cook your food perfectly every time. If you are looking for a new grill, or if you want to upgrade your current grill, consider a Kamado Joe.

What is the Difference Between Big Green Egg and Kamado Joe?

Before you make the decision on which grill is best for you, it’s important to understand the difference between Big Green Egg and Kamado Joe. Both grills are great for cooking at high temperatures, but they have some key differences that you should take into account.

1. Air Ventilation

One of the biggest differences between Big Green Egg and Kamado Joe is the way that they ventilate air. The Big Green Egg has a single, large air vent located at the bottom of the grill. This allows for great airflow and prevents ash from building up inside the grill.

Kamado Joe, on the other hand, has two air vents that are located at the top of the grill. This provides good airflow, but it can also cause ash to build up inside the grill.

2. Charcoal Basket

Charcoal basket size is an important consideration when selecting a Kamado Grill. The size of the charcoal basket will determine how much fuel you can fit in the grill and how long it will last. The Big Green Egg has a large charcoal basket that can hold up to 8 pounds of charcoal.

The Kamado Joe has a smaller charcoal basket that can hold up to 5 pounds of charcoal.

3. Ash Pan

Ash pans are designed to make it easy to remove ashes from your grill. The Big Green Egg comes with a removable ash pan, while the Kamado Joe does not. This can be a pain if you have to empty your grill after each use.

4. Lid

The Big Green Egg comes with a heavy-duty ceramic lid, while the Kamado Joe has a stainless-steel lid. The ceramic lid will help to keep the heat and smoke inside the grill, while the stainless-steel lid will allow some of the heat and smoke to escape.

5. Grates

The Big Green Egg comes with a porcelain-coated cast-iron grill grate, while the Kamado Joe has a stainless-steel grate. Both are great materials that will last a long time and are easy to clean. However, some people prefer the look of stainless steel, and it may be more resistant to rust.

6. Temperature control

The Big Green Egg and Kamado Joe have excellent temperature control, but the Kamado Joe is slightly better. The Big Green Egg does have a temperature gauge, but it is located on the outside of the cooker, which can make it difficult to read.

The Kamado Joe has a temperature gauge on the inside of the cooker, which is much easier to read.

7. Weight

The Big Green Egg is significantly heavier than the Kamado Joe. The Big Green Egg weighs about 232 lbs, while the Kamado Joe weighs about 162 lbs. This difference in weight is because the Big Green Egg is made out of ceramic, while the Kamado Joe is made out of ceramic-coated steel.

8. Cooking Level

The Big Green Egg has 2-3 cooking levels, while the Kamado Joe has 1 cooking level. The Big Green Egg can cook more food at once, but the Kamado Joe is better for cooking smaller items.

9. Price

The Big Green Egg is more expensive than the Kamado Joe. However, both grills are a good investment because they will last for many years.

10. Hinges

The Big Green Egg has a spring-loaded hinge that makes it easy to open and close the grill. The Kamado Joe has a two-piece air hinge that is not as easy to use. This can be a problem if you are trying to open or close the grill with one hand.

Big Green Egg vs Kamado Joe Comparison Table

Big Green Egg LargeKamado Joe Classic III
Cooking area262 sq. in.256 sq. in.
Weight162 lbs286 lbs
Fuel typeCharcoalCharcoal
HingeSpring-loadedAir hinge
PriceCheck latest priceCheck latest price

Big Green Egg vs Kamado Joe: Which is Better?

You might be stuck trying to decide between a Big Green Egg and a Kamado Joe. Both are excellent kamados and will serve you well. If you’re looking for a kamado with a little more versatility, the Big Green Egg might be the way to go. It can reach higher temperatures than the Kamado Joe, making it better for searing meats.

The Big Green Egg has a built-in temperature gauge. If you’re looking for a kamado that’s a little more user-friendly, the Kamado Joe might be the better choice. It has a sliding drawer that allows you to add charcoal without opening the entire kamado.

It also has a built-in ash catcher that makes cleanup a breeze. Ultimately, the decision comes down to your personal preferences. But you really can’t go wrong with either kamado.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Kamado Joe Made In China?

Kamado Joe is a popular brand of grill that is known for its high quality and durability. Although the company is based in the United States, its grills are made in Yixing, China.

This city is located in the Jiangsu Province, and it has a long history of ceramic production. The clay found in this region is ideal for making Kamado grills. It is sturdy and heat-resistant, yet it is also porous enough to allow for proper airflow.

What is the Difference Between a Big Green Egg and a Kamado Joe?

The biggest difference between the Big Green Egg and Kamado Joe is the price. Kamado Joe grills are typically about half the price of a Big Green Egg. Other than that, the grills are very similar in features and function.

How Long Will My Kamado Joe Last?

Kamado Joe grills are built to last. With proper care, your Kamado Joe grill will provide years of enjoyment.

How often should I use my Kamado Joe?

We recommend using your Kamado Joe at least once weekly to keep the ceramic body in peak condition. If you live in a cold climate, it is especially important to use your Kamado Joe regularly during the winter months to prevent the ceramic from cracking.

How Long Will A Green Egg Grill Last?

A Green Egg grill will last for many years with proper care. The enamel coating on the exterior of the egg is very tough and will withstand the elements well. The interior firebox is made of ceramic, which is also very durable. As long as you keep the egg clean and don’t drop it, it should last for many years.

What Can You Cook On A Big Green Egg?

You can cook just about anything on a Big Green Egg. It is great for grilling, smoking, baking, and even roasting. You can cook meats, vegetables, pizzas, desserts, and just about anything else.

Can I Use Regular Charcoal In Green Egg?

No, you cannot use regular charcoal in a Green Egg. The Green Egg is designed to work with specialty charcoal that has been specifically made for it. This charcoal is made from hardwood trees and burns hotter and cleaner than regular charcoal. It also lights more easily and evenly, giving you a more consistent cook.

How Long Will Big Green Egg Stay Hot?

The Big Green Egg will stay hot for hours, even when there’s no charcoal left. This is because the egg is made from ceramic, an excellent insulator. The Kamado Joe, on the other hand, will only stay hot for about half an hour after the charcoal has been used up.

How Do I Clean My Big Green Egg?

The best way to clean your Big Green Egg is with a stiff brush and soapy water. You can also use a pressure washer on the exterior of the egg, but be careful not to get too close to the ceramic surface.

Can I Leave My Big Green Egg Outside?

Yes, you can leave your Big Green Egg outside. The enamel coating on the exterior of the egg is very tough and will withstand the elements well. The interior firebox is made of ceramic, which is also very durable. As long as you keep the egg clean and don’t drop it, it should last for many years.

How Long Will Charcoal Burn In A Big Green Egg?

How long charcoal will burn in a Big Green Egg depends on how much you use and how you manage the airflow. A full chimney of lit charcoal will burn for about an hour in a Big Green Egg, and you can extend that time by opening the vents less. In a Kamado Joe, a full chimney of lit charcoal will only burn for about 30 minutes.

What is the Best Way to Store My Kamado Joe?

The best way to store your Kamado Joe is in a cool, dry place. If you live in an area with high humidity, it is especially important to ensure that your grill is completely dry before storing it. It is also recommended to cover your Kamado Joe with a grill cover to keep it clean and protected from the elements.

Conclusion

Whether you choose a Big Green Egg or Kamado Joe, you can’t go wrong with either option. Both grills offer excellent quality and performance, so it comes down to personal preference. They both serve their own purpose and target market, so it’s important to choose the one that best suits your needs.

If you’re looking for a high-end kamado grill with all the bells and whistles, then the Kamado Joe is a great option. If you’re looking for a more affordable kamado grill that still offers great performance, then the Big Green Egg is a good choice. Whichever grill you choose, you’re sure to enjoy many years of delicious grilled food.

Bobby Johnson

When he's not writing about barbecue, you can find Bobby smoking meat for friends and family. He's been a backyard pitmaster for roughly half his life, and has worked with nearly every cut of meat. Not everyone has a hands-on guide to teach them BBQ, but that's what Bobby hopes to do with Electric Smoker HQ. He wants to help people create amazing food that they can be proud of.