You’re locking in smoky flavor and searing steaks at 750°F with Kamado Joe’s Big Joe 24“—it’s got 450 sq in of space, a lift-assist hinge, and an ash drawer that makes cleanup way easier (no more digging).
Toss in the Divide & Conquer System and Stainless Charcoal Basket, and you’re running two-zone cooking like a pro; add Jealous Devil charcoal for clean, blazing heat.
If you want set-it-and-forget-it ease, the Wi-Fi-enabled Konnected Joe‘s auto-ignition’s got your back—even in the rain.
There’s a smart combo ahead that’ll change how you grill weekends.
| Kamado Joe Big Joe 24″ Grill (BJ24Rh) |  | Best Overall | Cooking Area: 450 square inches | Fuel Type: Charcoal | Temperature Range: 225°F to 750°F | VIEW LATEST PRICE | Read Our Analysis |
| Kamado Joe Konnected Joe 18″ Grill |  | Smart Tech Pick | Cooking Area: Not specified | Fuel Type: Charcoal | Temperature Range: Not specified | VIEW LATEST PRICE | Read Our Analysis |
| Tmozyar Multi-Level Cooking Grates for Kamado |  | Budget Upgrade | Cooking Area: Fits 18″ grills | Fuel Type: N/A (accessory) | Temperature Range: N/A (accessory) | VIEW LATEST PRICE | Read Our Analysis |
| Kamado Joe Classic Joe II (KJ-23RHC) |  | Top Value | Cooking Area: 250 square inches | Fuel Type: Charcoal | Temperature Range: 225°F to 750°F | VIEW LATEST PRICE | Read Our Analysis |
| Kamado Joe Stainless Steel Charcoal Basket (KJ-MCC23) |  | Essential Accessory | Cooking Area: N/A (accessory) | Fuel Type: N/A (accessory) | Temperature Range: N/A (accessory) | VIEW LATEST PRICE | Read Our Analysis |
| Kamado Joe Wax Fire Starters (24-Pack) |  | Fire Starter Pro | Cooking Area: N/A (accessory) | Fuel Type: Charcoal (fire starter) | Temperature Range: Up to 1300°F (fire starter) | VIEW LATEST PRICE | Read Our Analysis |
| Jealous Devil 100% Natural Hardwood Lump Charcoal |  | Best Fuel | Cooking Area: N/A (fuel) | Fuel Type: Hardwood lump charcoal | Temperature Range: Over 1,100°F | VIEW LATEST PRICE | Read Our Analysis |
| Kamado Joe Big Joe 24″ Grill |  | Large Capacity | Cooking Area: 450 square inches | Fuel Type: Charcoal | Temperature Range: 225°F to 750°F | VIEW LATEST PRICE | Read Our Analysis |
| Kamado Joe XL Hardwood Charcoal (20LBS) |  | Long Burn | Cooking Area: N/A (fuel) | Fuel Type: Hardwood lump charcoal | Temperature Range: Steak-searing to low-and-slow | VIEW LATEST PRICE | Read Our Analysis |
| Kamado Joe Classic Joe 18-Inch Grill |  | Classic Choice | Cooking Area: 250 square inches | Fuel Type: Charcoal | Temperature Range: 225°F to 750°F | VIEW LATEST PRICE | Read Our Analysis |
More Details on Our Top Picks
Kamado Joe Big Joe 24″ Grill (BJ24Rh)
If you’re the kind of griller who wants to smoke brisket low and slow one day and sear a steak at 750°F the next—without needing two different machines—the Kamado Joe Big Joe 24″ (BJ24Rh) is your new backyard best friend. You get 450 square inches of cooking space—plenty for racks of ribs and a few beers on the side. The Divide & Conquer two-tier system lets you cook different foods at once (imagine chicken up top, veggies below—no flavor clash). You’ll love the cast iron vent and built-in thermometer for steady temps, whether you’re smoking or screaming-hot searing. Cleanup? The slide-out ash drawer means you won’t be digging like a backyard archaeologist. The red ceramic beast rolls easy on locking wheels; fold-down shelves give you space for tongs, sauces, or that well-deserved drink. You’ve got a grill gripper included—because nobody wants to wrestle a hot grate bare-handed. It’s tough, versatile, and (honestly) kind of fun to show off.
- Cooking Area:450 square inches
- Fuel Type:Charcoal
- Temperature Range:225°F to 750°F
- Material:Ceramic shell, stainless steel
- Color:Red
- Item Weight:Not specified
- Additional Feature:Divide & Conquer Cooking System
- Additional Feature:Slide-out ash drawer
- Additional Feature:Air Lift Hinge
Kamado Joe Konnected Joe 18″ Grill
You’re the kind of person who loves the rich, smoky flavor charcoal brings but isn’t thrilled about babysitting the grill all afternoon—good news, this Kamado Joe Konnected Joe 18-inch grill was made with you in mind. You get that sweet charcoal taste without constantly poking the fire (thank goodness). It’s got Wi-Fi and auto-ignition, so you can fire it up from your phone—like magic, but tastier. The candy red ceramic shell looks sharp, and at 216 pounds, it’s not going anywhere (good luck moving it solo). It’s compact but tough, holding steady temps whether you’re searing steaks or slow-smoking ribs. Sure, it’s got fewer reviews (3.7 stars from 15 folks), but for hands-off heat with serious flavor, you can’t go wrong.
- Cooking Area:Not specified
- Fuel Type:Charcoal
- Temperature Range:Not specified
- Material:Ceramic
- Color:Candy Red
- Item Weight:216 pounds
- Additional Feature:Wi-Fi temperature control
- Additional Feature:Auto-ignition system
- Additional Feature:Digital connectivity
Tmozyar Multi-Level Cooking Grates for Kamado
The Tmozyar Multi-Level Cooking Grates step up your grilling game—especially if you’re tired of playing dodgeball with hot coals every time something falls through the rack. You get more cooking space without the mess; the one-piece stainless steel base catches flare-ups and keeps food from charring. It fits big 18″ grills like the Big Green Egg, Kamado Joe Classic, and Char-Griller Akorn—just check the shape before buying (seriously, measure twice). The layered setup includes ceramic deflectors and extra grids—great for searing steaks on top while smoking ribs below. You can grill, bake, or smoke with way more control; no more juggling heat zones or losing veggies to the charcoal abyss.
- Cooking Area:Fits 18″ grills
- Fuel Type:N/A (accessory)
- Temperature Range:N/A (accessory)
- Material:Stainless steel, ceramic
- Color:Stainless steel
- Item Weight:Not specified
- Additional Feature:Multi-tier heat deflectors
- Additional Feature:One-piece basket base
- Additional Feature:Converts to Kamado-style
Kamado Joe Classic Joe II (KJ-23RHC)
Grab your tongs and get ready—this isn’t your average backyard grill. You’re dealing with the Kamado Joe Classic Joe II (KJ-23RHC), a red-hot ceramic beast that locks in heat like a vault. At 215 pounds, it’s not going anywhere—and you won’t want it to. Its 18-inch cooking surface gives you 250 sq in of serious grilling real estate; add the Divide & Conquer System and you’re doubling down on zones (perfect for ribs and steaks). You’ll smoke at 225°F or sear at 750°F—no sweat. The Air Lift Hinge lets you lift the dome with one finger (no more shoulder workout). (Yes, really.)
- Cooking Area:250 square inches
- Fuel Type:Charcoal
- Temperature Range:225°F to 750°F
- Material:Ceramic, stainless steel
- Color:Red
- Item Weight:215 pounds
- Additional Feature:Air Lift Hinge
- Additional Feature:Kontrol Tower Vent
- Additional Feature:Six-piece firebox design
Kamado Joe Stainless Steel Charcoal Basket (KJ-MCC23)
Love tending your fire like a pitmaster but hate digging through ash just to bank coals? You’ll love the Kamado Joe Stainless Steel Charcoal Basket (KJ-MCC23). It keeps your charcoal separated from gunk, so cleanup’s a breeze—no more scooping sludge like it’s a crime scene (we’ve all been there). Made of 304 stainless steel, it’s tough, rust-resistant, and fits perfectly in your Classic Joe I, II, or III. It snaps right into the bottom of the Divide & Conquer system—rotate to lock or release. With two-zone cooking, you can sear on one side, slow-cook on the other. It’s not flashy, but it just works. And honestly, that’s all you need.
- Cooking Area:N/A (accessory)
- Fuel Type:N/A (accessory)
- Temperature Range:N/A (accessory)
- Material:304 stainless steel
- Color:Stainless Steel
- Item Weight:8.6 pounds
- Additional Feature:Two-zone cooking divider
- Additional Feature:Rotates for access
- Additional Feature:Simplifies coal banking
Kamado Joe Wax Fire Starters (24-Pack)
Kamado Joe Wax Fire Starters (24-Pack)
You’re not just firing up a grill—you’re starting a ritual, and Kamado Joe Wax Fire Starters make sure it kicks off right. These little cubes—24 of ’em—light fast, even when wet, no soggy newspaper or funky lighter fluid needed. They’re pure paraffin, odorless, smokeless, and burn crazy hot (up to 1300°F)—perfect for searing that ribeye. No chemical aftertaste; just clean, efficient heat. Toss one under your charcoal, spark it, and go do something useful—like grabbing a beer. They work in any charcoal grill or fireplace, not just Kamado Joe’s (though they love those). Lightweight, compact, and rated 4.8 stars for a reason—people actually use them. Fire cubes that deliver, no pretense needed.
- Cooking Area:N/A (accessory)
- Fuel Type:Charcoal (fire starter)
- Temperature Range:Up to 1300°F (fire starter)
- Material:Paraffin wax
- Color:Color (unspecified)
- Item Weight:0.16 pounds
- Additional Feature:Smokeless odorless ignition
- Additional Feature:Ignites when wet
- Additional Feature:No chemical taste
Jealous Devil 100% Natural Hardwood Lump Charcoal
For backyard cooks who want their grill to scream hotter, not smoke you out, Jealous Devil 100% Natural Hardwood Lump Charcoal is a no-brainer—especially if you’re running a Kamado-style grill that thrives on high heat and clean burns. You’ll love how fast it lights—ready in about 15 minutes—and how hot it burns, hitting over 1,100°F (perfect for searing steaks without charring your shirt). It’s made from dense South American hardwood, no junk, no additives; just pure, earthy heat. The resealable bag keeps it dry (and portable—nice for tailgates). You’ll use 25–40% less vs. cheaper charcoals (your wallet thanks you); plus, it leaves minimal ash, so cleanup’s a breeze. It doesn’t pop or spark (goodbye, flaming grease flare-ups); just steady, reliable fire—great for brisket, ribs, or even roasting veggies without tasting like a campfire. With a 4.6-star rating from thousands, it’s not just hype—it’s your new go-to fuel for serious flavor, night after night.
- Cooking Area:N/A (fuel)
- Fuel Type:Hardwood lump charcoal
- Temperature Range:Over 1,100°F
- Material:Hardwood lump
- Color:Natural wood tone
- Item Weight:35 pounds
- Additional Feature:Burns hotter longer
- Additional Feature:Low ash output
- Additional Feature:Resists popping sparking
Kamado Joe Big Joe 24″ Grill
If you’re the type who fires up the grill for a crowd—think ten juicy burgers, six brats, and a couple of rib-eyes without breaking a sweat—the Kamado Joe Big Joe 24″ is built for you. You get 450 square inches of cooking space, so you won’t be playing grill Tetris (nobody has time for that). The ceramic design locks in heat and smoke like a champ, hitting 8,000 BTU for searing or slow-smoking; plus, the Air Lift Hinge lets you lift the dome with one finger—no shoulder workout needed. Stainless steel grates won’t rust, the ash drawer slides out clean, and the red finish? Bold, but hey—it means business.
- Cooking Area:450 square inches
- Fuel Type:Charcoal
- Temperature Range:225°F to 750°F
- Material:Ceramic, stainless steel
- Color:Blaze Red
- Item Weight:394 pounds
- Additional Feature:Multi-panel firebox
- Additional Feature:Blaze Red finish
- Additional Feature:Commercial-grade grates
Kamado Joe XL Hardwood Charcoal (20LBS)
Fire up your Kamado Joe with confidence—this 20-pound bag of Big Block XL hardwood lump charcoal delivers long, steady burns perfect for both weeknight sears and weekend smoke sessions. You get real hardwood—no fillers or processed junk—just Guayacan, Quebracho, and other dense woods that burn hot and slow. It lights fast, holds heat like a champ (think 18 hours of set-it-and-forget-it smoking), and you can even reuse chunks—just close the vents and save what’s left (yes, really). Meat comes out juicier, smokier, and way more delicious, thanks to clean, consistent heat. At #3 in grilling charcoal, with nearly 6,500 glowing reviews, it’s a no-brainer.
- Cooking Area:N/A (fuel)
- Fuel Type:Hardwood lump charcoal
- Temperature Range:Steak-searing to low-and-slow
- Material:Hardwood lump
- Color:Natural charcoal
- Item Weight:20 pounds
- Additional Feature:Reusable charcoal pieces
- Additional Feature:Up to 18-hour burn
- Additional Feature:Fast-starting blend
Kamado Joe Classic Joe 18-Inch Grill
You’re the kind of person who likes to grill a juicy steak while smoking ribs on the side—maybe even sneak in some veggies without playing kitchen Tetris—so the Kamado Joe Classic Joe 18-Inch Grill fits your style like a well-worn apron. Its 250 square inches of cooking space (with a clever half-moon, two-tier grate system) lets you sear at 750°F and smoke low at 225°F—no compromises. The red ceramic body holds heat like a vault, while the slide-out ash drawer means cleanup’s actually easy (no digging like an archaeologist). You get stainless steel grates, a handy thermometer, and a cart with shelves—perfect for tongs, sauce, and that beer you’re definitely not spilling.
- Cooking Area:250 square inches
- Fuel Type:Charcoal
- Temperature Range:225°F to 750°F
- Material:Ceramic, stainless steel
- Color:Red
- Item Weight:Not specified
- Additional Feature:Built-in thermometer
- Additional Feature:Patented ash drawer
- Additional Feature:Half-moon grate design
Factors to Consider When Choosing Kamado Charcoal Grill Systems
You want a grill that won’t quit when you’re feeding a backyard crowd or slow-smoking ribs for hours—so think about how much you’re cooking and whether 18 inches fits your patio (or if you’ll be playing squeeze-the-family-around-the-table). Good temperature control means you’re not babysitting the grill all day; look for tight seals, a solid airflow system, and a lid that won’t wobble like a teetering stack of pancakes. And trust me, after a long cook, you’ll appreciate a grease tray that slides out instead of chiseling charred crud off a cave-like interior.
Cooking Capacity Size
When picking a Kamado grill, the size of the cooking surface makes a real difference—especially if you’ve ever tried squeezing eight burgers onto a space meant for four. You’ll want at least 200–300 sq in for small families; it’s perfect for burgers, veggies, or a couple of chickens. Host bigger crews? Aim for 300–450 sq in—enough to fit a whole brisket, a rack of ribs, and some corn on the side (maybe even dessert). Multi-level grates double your game, letting you slow-cook wings on the bottom while searing steaks above—no juggling needed. Don’t forget vertical space; a tall dome means you can stand a turkey upright or use a rotisserie without panic. And with add-ons like heat deflectors or dual grates, your real cooking zone grows way beyond the basic footprint. Match the size to your usual crowd—because no one wants to play grill Tetris at a backyard party.
Temperature Control Precision
Though temperature control might not sound exciting, it’s what turns grilled disasters into dinner wins—especially when you’re trying to smoke a brisket all day without babysitting the thing. You need top and bottom vents that let you tweak airflow with precision—a tiny adjustment can swing temps by 50°F or more. A tight ceramic seal and solid gasket stop sneaky air leaks, holding steady at 225°F (perfect for pulled pork) or cranking to 750°F for a killer sear. Skip the guesswork: go for a dome thermometer that actually works, or better—add a digital probe at grate level (lid dials often lie by 50+ degrees). Thick walls smooth out temp swings, but they’re slow to respond—plan ahead. And with a charcoal basket or divider, you can bank coals and create zones, making long cooks way easier.
Material Durability Quality
Build a kamado that lasts, and it’ll pay you back with years of worry-free cooks—no flimsy frames or cracked domes here. You want thick ceramic walls—they handle heat like a champ, hold temps steady, and cut down on charcoal refills (a real win when smoking brisket for 12 hours). Stainless steel parts? Go for 304-grade or better; they laugh in the face of rust and won’t warp when things get blazing. Cheap gaskets quit early—opt for double-thick fiberglass mesh, and that seal stays tight, cook after cook. Multi-panel fireboxes spread the stress, so you don’t end up with a cracked liner after a few hot-and-fast sears. Powder-coated finishes and rust-proof vents keep things looking sharp, even if you leave it out in the rain (we’ve all forgotten to cover it once or twice). Your future self will thank you—less repair, more eating.
Airflow Management System
You’ve got a sturdy kamado built to last, thick ceramic walls holding heat like a vault—now let’s talk about what really runs the show: airflow. Your grill lives and dies by how well you control oxygen. A precision top vent with a tight seal and small notches lets you dial in temps—from 225°F smoke sessions to 700°F+ searing (perfect for crispy pizza crusts). Pair that with a big, easy-grip bottom intake, and you’ve got fast heat or steady burns for hours. Heavy-duty steel or cast vents won’t warp, so your settings stick—no fiddling every 20 minutes. A clean airflow path matters too; ash drawers keep gunk from clogging the fire’s breath. And don’t overlook the hinge and gasket—a snug seal stops rogue air leaks that cause wild temp swings (annoying when you’re chasing “set and forget”).
Ease Of Cleanup
Ease of Cleanup
Let the ashes settle—literally—because cleanup shouldn’t feel like a backyard chore you dodge like taking out the trash on a cold morning. You’ll want a slide-out ash drawer so you’re not digging around with gloves and a shovel (talk about messy). Removable stainless steel grates and heat deflectors? Huge win—just soak ’em in soapy water while you scrub off last night’s sear. A one-piece firebox keeps charcoal from spilling into nooks, so you’re not brushing crumbs out like it’s a dusty oven. Fewer internal panels mean less headache when you wipe down the ceramic or clear the vents. And hey, grab a model with handy tools—a built-in ash scoop or gripper saves trips to the garage. Bonus: low-ash charcoal cuts deep cleans from monthly to “maybe in the spring.” You’ll actually *want* to tidy up—well, almost.
Versatile Cooking Options
Fire up that weekend cookout and watch it turn into a full-on backyard kitchen—all in one sleek ceramic shell. You can smoke ribs at 225°F while baking cornbread right above—thanks to smart airflow and thick walls that hold temp like a champ. Crank it up to 700°F and sear steaks with restaurant-grade char (yes, even pizza turns out crispy in 90 seconds). Use the two-zone setup—charcoal on one side, gentle radiant heat on the other—to keep food warm without drying it out. With multi-level grates or half-moon systems, you’re grilling shrimp on top while brisket smokes low below. Toss in a heat deflector, and boom—no flare-ups, just perfect roasts and braised short ribs. It’s like having an oven, smoker, and grill in one (minus the crowded kitchen). And since the ceramic locks in heat, you’ll tweak the dampers once, maybe twice, over a three-hour smoke—then kick back. You’ve earned it.
Accessory Compatibility Range
That backyard kitchen you just fired up? Make sure it plays well with others. Check your grill’s cooking diameter and dome shape—aftermarket grates, heat deflectors, and racks must fit snug like a puzzle piece. If they wobble or block vents, you’re in for a messy cook. Look at how things attach: slots, tabs, magnetic rests, or dovetail fittings keep charcoal baskets and deflectors locked in place (and aligned with airflow). Thicker ceramic walls and hinged lids mean less wiggle room, so confirm vertical clearance and heat expansion space. You’ll want accessories that boost two-zone setups—think divider baskets or half-moon grates—without choking the vents. And hey, opt for standard mounting sizes (diameter, bolt pattern) so third-party add-ons actually work. No one wants to play mix-and-match with replacement parts.
Fuel Efficiency Performance
When you’re cooking low and slow, the last thing you want is your charcoal burning up faster than your patience on a Monday morning. Thick ceramic walls trap heat like a thermos, so you use 25–40% less fuel—great for all-day briskets. Tight seals and quality gaskets starve the fire of excess oxygen, keeping burns steady and efficient (no flare-ups or wasted heat). Indirect setups with deflectors or baskets block direct flames, cutting heat loss and slashing fuel use. Lump charcoal burns hotter and cleaner than briquettes, giving more heat per pound with less ash—plus, it flows better when you’re banking coals. Smart features like ash drawers and removable baskets let you save half-burned chunks for next time—because who throws away free heat? You’re not just saving charcoal; you’re saving money, effort, and your weekend grill session from turning into a charcoal-buying run.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use Regular Charcoal in a Kamado Grill?
You can use regular charcoal in a kamado grill, but you shouldn’t. It burns faster, hotter, and less evenly—stick to lump charcoal for better control, longer burns, and richer flavor. You’ll get the most out of your grill this way.
How Long Does a Kamado Grill Last?
You’ll get decades of use—like that one still going strong after 40 years in a Florida backyard, enduring hurricanes and cookouts. With care, yours won’t just last; it’ll become a legacy, not just a grill, but a heirloom you pass down like wisdom around fires.
Are Kamado Grills Worth the High Price?
Yes, they’re worth it—you’ll save money over time since they last decades and cook efficiently. You’ll use less fuel, get perfect results, and enjoy them for years without replacing them.
Do Kamado Grills Rust in the Rain?
Yes, they can rust in the rain if you leave them uncovered. You should protect your grill with a cover and check seals regularly. Moisture leads to rust over time, especially on metal parts exposed to the elements.
Can I Leave My Kamado Grill Outside Year-Round?
Yes, you can leave your Kamado grill outside year-round. You’ll need to use a weather-resistant cover and check it regularly. Rain won’t hurt it much, but sealing cracks and protecting hardware will keep rust at bay and ensure it stays in top shape.
Conclusion
You’re in good hands with any of these picks—grilling’s basically foolproof when your gear’s this solid. The Big Joe handles searing steaks like a boss, while the Konnected Joe’s app control feels like cheating (in a good way). You’ll save time, cook better meals, and maybe even impress the in-laws. When it comes to flavor and heat, you’re not just whistling past the graveyard—you’re running the whole show.
