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Kamado Joe II Classic 18-Inch
Specifications
- 18-inch diameter cooking surface (250 square inches)
- Comes with a stand (nest) and polyethylene side tables
- Top vent cap is cast iron – the bottom vent is stainless steel
- Ceramic body with enameled steel parts
- Stainless steel cooking grates
- Spring loaded lid for easy lifting
- Removable ash catcher drawer
- Includes multi-level (two-tier) cooking grate system
- Made in China for Kamado Joe
Full Review – Kamado Joe II Classic 18-Inch Charcoal Grill ($1299)
PROS
- Full Feature Kamado Grill
- Excellent Temperature Control
- Great Smoking Capabilities
- Wide Range of Accessories
CONS
- Sold as a Package
When I saw the prototype of the Kamado Joe grill, I could still see the space where the ‘Big Green Egg’ logo had been smudged out of the mold from which this unit had been made. It was in every way a red-colored version of the popular Egg. Since then, through effective marketing and a business strategy focused on providing a complete package for a reasonable price, Kamado Joe has become a leading innovator in the industry.
In a straightforward comparison, the Kamado Joe Classic II 18-inch charcoal grill is comparable to the Big Green Egg. However, the Joe includes everything that Big Green Egg charges extra for. It comes fully loaded with accessories, including the nest, tables, and other add-ons. It’s worth noting that Big Green Egg has recently announced its versions of these accessories.
Kamado Joe vs Big Green Egg – Durability
When comparing the ceramic shells, you’ll find that the Big Green Egg is superior. It is heavier, smoother, and denser. However, this difference isn’t earth-shattering. Big Green Egg’s ceramic shells are made in Mexico, while Kamado Joe makes theirs in China. Most people will never notice the difference. Testing the long-term durability of Kamado Joe’s ceramics is difficult as it hasn’t been around nearly as long as the Big Green Egg. The latter is likely to last longer.
One significant reason to choose a Kamado Joe over the Big Green Egg is that the latter does not allow online sales. If you encounter difficulties in purchasing a Big Green Egg, Kamado Joe grills can be easily purchased and shipped to most locations. Ever wonder why online grill stores claim that Kamado Joe is superior? They downplay the quality of the Big Green Egg in their ratings because they cannot sell it on their platforms.
You are not making a mistake by choosing the Kamado Joe over other ceramic Kamado grills. It is a great product from a good company that works tirelessly to make improvements, including new accessories and features.
Affiliate Disclosure
This article and the website it appears on use sales affiliates to cover the cost of operation. If you choose to purchase a product through the links provided, a portion of that sale will go to me. It helps me create content, so I can help my readers have the best outdoor cooking experience. I am grateful to all my readers over the years that have been so kind as to assist me in my exploration of outdoor cooking. Thank you.
