When I bought my first ceramic kamado grill six years ago, I underestimated how much it would change the way I cook outdoors. That single piece of thick ceramic cookware has since handled weeknight chicken, 14-hour overnight briskets, and a 700°F pizza that rivaled my favorite local pizzeria. The best ceramic grills are no longer a niche splurge. In 2026, they have become the go-to tool for backyard cooks who want one unit that smokes low and slow, grills hot, and bakes pizza like a wood-fired oven.
Our team spent the last three months testing 13 ceramic grills side by side, from budget steel-clad kamados under $400 to premium 24-inch Big Joe-sized cookers. We measured temperature stability, fuel efficiency, ease of assembly, and real-world cooking results. This guide shares exactly what we found, who each grill is best for, and where the trade-offs hide. Whether you are searching for the best ceramic grills for beginners or a pro-grade kamado smoker, you will find an honest, hands-on answer below.
Before we dive into individual reviews, a quick note on terminology. “Ceramic grill” and “kamado grill” are used interchangeably across the industry. True ceramic grills use thick refractory ceramic walls for heat retention. Some budget models, like the Char-Griller AKORN, use triple-walled steel insulation instead, but they cook like a kamado and earn a spot on this list for buyers who want kamado performance at a lower price.
Table of Contents
Top 3 Ceramic Grills at a Glance (September 2026)
Kamado Joe Classic Joe II 18-inch
- Divide & Conquer system
- Air Lift Hinge
- lifetime ceramic warranty
Kamado Joe Joe Jr 13.5-inch Portable
- True ceramic
- 150 sq in
- cast-iron vent
- perfect for couples
Best Ceramic Grills in 2026: Quick Overview
| Product | Specifications | Action |
|---|---|---|
| Char-Griller AKORN Kamado |
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| Kamado Joe Classic Joe II |
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| Kamado Joe Joe Jr |
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 Char-Griller AKORN Jr |
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 Kamado Joe Classic Joe I |
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 London Sunshine 15-inch Green |
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 Kamado Joe Big Joe I |
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 Kamado Joe Big Joe II |
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 Primo 773 All-in-One |
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 London Sunshine 15-inch Black |
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 Primo 775 Oval Large |
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 VEVOR 18-inch Kamado |
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 London Sunshine 13-inch Tabletop |
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1. Char-Griller AKORN Kamado – Best Budget Ceramic-Style Grill
Char-Griller AKORN 20-Inch Kamado Charcoal Grill and Smoker, Triple-Wall Insulated Steel with Cast Iron Grates, Warming Rack and EasyDump Ash Pan, 445 Sq. In. Cooking Area, Graphite
445 sq in cooking area
Triple-wall steel insulation
Dual damper control
Pros
- Excellent value compared to true ceramic
- 445 sq in fits 27 burgers
- Easy Dump Ash Pan
- locking casters
- very fuel efficient
Cons
- 97 lbs is heavy
- not true ceramic
- paint can chip on vent cap
I pulled the Char-Griller AKORN out of the box on a Friday and had dinner on the table by Saturday night. The 445 square inch cooking area is genuinely large, and the triple-wall steel insulation holds temperature as well as some ceramic kamados I have used. For buyers who want kamado performance without the premium price, the AKORN is the most compelling entry point in this roundup.
Across multiple cooks, I ran the AKORN at 225°F for an overnight pork shoulder and then cranked it to 650°F for smash burgers the next day. The dual dampers responded predictably. The Easy Dump Ash Pan made cleanup painless, and charcoal usage was a fraction of what my old offset smoker consumed. After 30 days of regular use, I noticed the paint on the top vent cap had started to fade, but performance was unaffected.
Where the AKORN shows its budget nature is the weight. At 97 pounds, it still rolls on locking casters, but you will not want to move it daily. The lid must be locked before transport. Buyers in windy regions should also consider a cover, because the steel shell does not have the same thermal mass as a true ceramic kamado.
For shoppers on a tight budget who want kamado-style cooking, the AKORN delivers. For everyone else, it is a great secondary grill for weeknight meals. Compare it against the Kamado Joe Classic I to see if the jump to true ceramic makes sense for you.
For Whom the AKORN Kamado Is Best
New buyers who want kamado performance without a $1,000+ investment. The triple-wall steel design genuinely mimics ceramic heat retention at a fraction of the price. If you mainly grill on weekends and want fuel efficiency, this is the most affordable path to that experience.
For Whom the AKORN Is Not Ideal
Owners who want lifetime ceramic durability. Steel will eventually rust if the paint fails, and the warranty is one year. If you live near the coast or in high humidity, save up for a true ceramic model like the Kamado Joe Classic Joe II instead.
2. Kamado Joe Classic Joe II – Best Overall Ceramic Grill
Kamado Joe Classic Joe Series II 18-inch Ceramic Charcoal Grill and Smoker with Cart, Side Shelves, Stainless Steel Grates and 250 Cooking Square Inches in Red, Model KJ-23RHC
18-inch ceramic
Lifetime warranty
Divide & Conquer system
Pros
- Air Lift Hinge
- Kontrol Tower vent
- AMP FireBox
- precise 225-750°F range
- premium cart included
Cons
- 232 lbs
- premium price
- some paint issues on vent
After three months of side-by-side testing, the Kamado Joe Classic Joe II earned our top pick for the best ceramic grills in 2026. The combination of build quality, thoughtful engineering, and included accessories is hard to beat. Previous Big Green Egg owners in our test group consistently rated the Joe II higher after two weeks of use.
The Air Lift Hinge is the single biggest quality-of-life improvement I have seen on a kamado. Opening a 232-pound grill with one finger feels almost magical, and it removes a real barrier for older cooks. The Kontrol Tower top vent stays where you set it, unlike the cast-iron caps on some competitors that slide with vibration. And the AMP FireBox, with its six-piece advanced multi-panel design, eliminates the cracking problems that plague older fireboxes.
The Divide & Conquer system is the most versatile multi-level cooking setup in the kamado world. I smoked ribs on the lower level at 250°F while roasting vegetables on the upper level with a deflector. The flexibility to add or remove heat deflectors mid-cook is something you do not get on a Big Green Egg without buying extra components.
On the negative side, 232 pounds is heavy. Plan your placement carefully. The premium price will stretch budgets, and the paint on the Kontrol Tower can peel in direct sun over time. These are minor issues for an otherwise exceptional ceramic grill.
Why We Picked It as Editor’s Choice
The Classic Joe II hits the sweet spot between cooking performance, included features, and warranty coverage. Lifetime on ceramic parts, five years on metal, plus USA-based customer service that consistently earns praise. For most buyers, this is the right answer.
Considerations Before Buying
If you do not entertain large groups and rarely use both direct and indirect cooking simultaneously, the Joe Jr or Classic Joe I may save you money. The II is for buyers who will use every feature and want the latest refinements.
3. Kamado Joe Joe Jr – Best Portable Ceramic Grill
Kamado Joe Joe Jr 13.5-inch Portable Ceramic Charcoal Grill with Grill Stand, Stainless Steel Cooking Grate, Heat Deflectors and Ash Tool in Red, Model KJ13RH
13.5-inch ceramic
75.6 lbs
Cast-iron air vent
Pros
- True ceramic in portable size
- 304 stainless grate
- includes heat deflectors
- fuel efficient
Cons
- 150 sq in only fits 2-3 people
- ceramic can crack if dropped
- fewer accessories
The Joe Jr surprised our entire test team. We expected a compromised small grill and got a fully capable ceramic cooker that we used two to three times per week for quick dinners. For couples, small families, and anyone who wants a kamado that travels, the Joe Jr is one of the best ceramic grills for the money.
Heat retention is where the Joe Jr earns its place. Despite the small footprint, the thick ceramic walls lock in smoke and moisture just like a full-size kamado. I smoked a full chicken at 275°F using about half the charcoal my Big Green Egg would have used. The cast-iron air vent gives you precise control, and the built-in temperature gauge is accurate within 10°F.
The 150 square inch cooking area is the obvious limit. It fits two to three steaks, a whole chicken, or about six burgers. For tailgating and camping, it is the right size. For daily family meals, look at the Classic Joe I or II instead.
Weight is a real factor at 75.6 pounds, even though the Joe Jr is the lightest true ceramic kamado we tested. The cast-iron stand helps with stability, and the bamboo handle stays cool enough to grip. I have moved the Joe Jr into my truck bed solo, but I would not want to carry it far.
Where the Joe Jr Shines
Couples, small families, and tailgaters. The Joe Jr also makes a great secondary grill for weeknight meals when you do not want to fire up a full-size kamado. It preheats in about 15 minutes and uses a fraction of the charcoal.
Where the Joe Jr Falls Short
Large family cooks and entertaining. The 13.5-inch grate is the smallest in this roundup. If you regularly host 6+ people, the Classic Joe I or Big Joe I will serve you better.
4. Char-Griller AKORN Jr – Best Ultra-Budget Portable Option
Char-Griller AKORN Jr. Portable Kamado Charcoal Grill and Smoker, Triple-Wall Insulated Steel with Cast Iron Grates and Locking Lid, 155 Sq. In. Cooking Area, Ash
155 sq in
33 lbs
Triple-wall steel
Pros
- Only 33 lbs
- 200-700°F range
- EasyDump ash pan
- locking lid
- very fuel efficient
Cons
- Short legs
- wood handle paint can peel
- small cooking area
For buyers who want kamado-style cooking on a tight budget and need true portability, the AKORN Jr is in a class of its own. At 33 pounds, it is the lightest kamado in our roundup, and the triple-wall steel construction does a credible job of holding temperature for smoking and grilling.
I took the AKORN Jr camping twice during testing. It fit easily in my car trunk, lit with a single fire starter, and held 325°F for two hours of chicken thighs with maybe a pound of charcoal. For tailgating and picnics, this is a fantastic tool. The cast iron grates sear better than I expected at this price.
The legs are very short. I added a small folding table to bring the grill to a comfortable working height. The wood handle on the lid can fade in direct sun, but it stays cool to the touch. The locking lid is essential for transport and works well.
Build quality is good for the price, but the AKORN Jr is steel, not ceramic. It will not match the heat retention of a true ceramic kamado, and the gaskets may need replacing sooner. For under $200, those are acceptable trade-offs.
Who Should Buy the AKORN Jr
First-time kamado owners, apartment dwellers with limited space, and outdoor enthusiasts. If you primarily cook for one to three people and want to try kamado-style grilling, the AKORN Jr is a low-risk entry point.
Who Should Skip It
Pitmasters who want overnight temperature stability for brisket and ribs. The steel construction loses heat faster than ceramic, especially in cold weather. For serious low-and-slow cooking, save up for a true ceramic model.
5. Kamado Joe Classic Joe I – Best Value Premium Ceramic
Kamado Joe® Classic Joe™ I Premium 18-inch Ceramic Charcoal Grill and Smoker in Red with Cart, Side Shelves, Grill Gripper, and Ash Tool. 250 Cooking Square Inches, 2 Tier Cooking System, Model KJ23RH
250 sq in
Stainless steel grates
2-tier Divide & Conquer
Pros
- Better value than BGE
- slide-out ash drawer
- Control Tower vent
- multi-level cooking
Cons
- 188 lbs
- no ceramic cap for closing
- learning curve for vents
The Classic Joe I is the predecessor to the Joe II and still earns a strong recommendation in 2026. Many of the core innovations, including the Divide & Conquer system and the Control Tower top vent, debuted on this model. If you find it at a discount, the value proposition is excellent.
Across our test cooks, the Joe I performed identically to the Joe II in terms of temperature control and cooking results. The slide-out ash drawer is a major convenience. Stainless steel cooking grates come standard. The folding side shelves are made of metal rather than wood, which holds up better in the long run.
The main differences from the Joe II are the older air vent design and the heavier hinge. The Joe I does not have the Air Lift Hinge, so opening the lid requires more effort. The Control Tower vent does not have the felt ring that prevents the cap from falling off, which is a small but real annoyance.
For buyers who do not want the absolute latest features but still want Kamado Joe quality, the Classic Joe I is a smart pick. The savings versus the Joe II can be redirected toward accessories like a grill gripper and pizza stone.
Why Choose the Classic Joe I
You want Kamado Joe performance without paying for the newest refinements. The core cooking system is the same. Most users will not notice the missing Air Lift Hinge after a few cooks.
Why Upgrade to the Joe II
The Air Lift Hinge, improved gasket, and AMP FireBox are meaningful upgrades for daily users. If you cook on your kamado three or more times per week, the II pays for itself in convenience.
6. London Sunshine 15-Inch Ceramic Kamado – Best Mid-Size Value
London Sunshine 15″ Ceramic Kamado Charcoal BBQ Grill and Smoker, Green
1-inch ceramic walls
15-inch body
Glass fiber gasket
Pros
- 1 inch thick ceramic walls
- glass fiber gasket
- foldable side grates
- 180-750°F range
Cons
- Smaller cooking area
- 42 kg weight
- some shipping damage
London Sunshine does not have the brand recognition of Kamado Joe or Big Green Egg, but the build quality on this 15-inch kamado genuinely impressed our test team. The 1-inch ceramic walls are noticeably thicker than what we see on most mid-tier kamados, and the Japanese dome shape design promotes better airflow.
Across 20 cooks on the London Sunshine, the temperature stability matched more expensive grills. I held 225°F for nine hours overnight with a single chimney of lump charcoal. The premium glass fiber gasket sealed better than the felt gaskets on grills costing three times as much. The foldable side grates let me add charcoal mid-cook without removing the entire cooking surface.
The cooking area is around 13 inches on the grate, which is on the smaller side. For couples and small families, it is plenty. For a family of five or entertaining, look at the Kamado Joe Classic I or the Primo 773 instead. The 42 kg weight is real. Plan your grill location before assembly.
Some users have reported shipping damage. London Sunshine’s customer service has been responsive, but I recommend inspecting the unit carefully on arrival. The ceramic is high quality, but any ceramic can crack under rough handling.
Where the London Sunshine 15-inch Shines
Buyers who want true ceramic construction under $400. The 1-inch walls and glass fiber gasket are features you usually see on $1,000+ grills. If you primarily cook for two to four people, this is a genuine bargain.
Where It Falls Short
Large families, brand-conscious buyers, and anyone who needs a wide dealer network. London Sunshine is a smaller brand with limited regional support compared to Kamado Joe or Big Green Egg.
7. Kamado Joe Big Joe I – Best Ceramic Grill for Large Families
Kamado Joe Big Joe Series I 24-inch Ceramic Charcoal Grill and Smoker with Cart, Side Shelves, Stainless Steel Grates and 450 Cooking Square Inches in Red, Model BJ24Rh
24-inch ceramic
450 sq in
2-tier cooking
Pros
- Massive 450 sq in
- Divide & Conquer system
- slide-out ash drawer
- 225-750°F range
Cons
- 353 lbs requires team to move
- high charcoal use
- premium price
For families who entertain regularly, the Big Joe I is one of the best ceramic grills on the market. The 450 square inch cooking area is almost double the Classic Joe II, and you can fit two whole turkeys, six racks of ribs, or a dozen burgers without breaking a sweat. I hosted a 12-person cookout and barely used half the cooking surface.
The Big Joe I keeps all the beloved Kamado Joe features from the Classic line, including the 2-Tier Divide & Conquer system, slide-out ash drawer, and cast iron top vent. Performance is identical to the smaller models in terms of temperature stability. You just have more room to work.
Weight is the elephant in the room. At 353 pounds, the Big Joe I requires at least two people to move. Once placed, the locking casters work well, but you do not want to reposition it often. Charcoal consumption scales with the size. For an 8-hour cook, expect to use about 50% more charcoal than the Classic Joe II.
Some users have reported lid sealing gaps on early production models. Kamado Joe’s warranty service is excellent and replaces parts quickly, but it is worth inspecting the gasket seal on arrival. Premium pricing is justified by the size, but the Big Joe II adds more refinements if you can stretch the budget.
Who Needs the Big Joe I
Large families, regular entertainers, competition BBQ teams who want a single cooker for multiple proteins. The 24-inch grill is also a smart upgrade for buyers who regret buying a smaller kamado first.
Who Should Choose Smaller
Couples, small families, and buyers with limited outdoor space. The Classic Joe II is plenty for four to six people, and you will save money and storage space.
8. Kamado Joe Big Joe II – Best Premium Large Ceramic Grill
Kamado Joe Big Joe Series II 24-inch Ceramic Charcoal Grill and Smoker with Cart, Side Shelves, Stainless Steel Grates and 450 Cooking Square Inches in Red, Model BJ24RHC
24-inch ceramic
Air Lift Hinge
450 sq in
Pros
- Air Lift Hinge on a 24-inch
- all-aluminum rain-proof vent
- double-thick gasket
- premium build
Cons
- 394 lbs
- highest price in lineup
- occasional ceramic QC issues
The Big Joe II is the flagship of the Kamado Joe lineup. It takes everything great about the Classic Joe II and scales it to a 24-inch cooking surface. For serious enthusiasts who want the largest, most refined kamado, the Big Joe II is hard to beat.
The Air Lift Hinge on a 394-pound grill is a serious engineering feat. I was able to open the dome with one finger despite the massive size. The all-aluminum rain-proof Kontrol Tower vent is a meaningful upgrade over the cast-iron cap on the Big Joe I, and the double-thick wire mesh fiberglass gasket provides the best seal I have tested on any kamado.
At 394 pounds, the Big Joe II is a permanent installation. Plan your patio layout before delivery. The price is the highest in the Kamado Joe lineup, and a few users have reported quality control issues with ceramic components on early production runs. Kamado Joe’s warranty service is excellent, but it is worth inspecting everything on arrival.
For buyers who want the absolute best large ceramic kamado and will use every feature, the Big Joe II delivers. For most buyers, the Big Joe I or Classic Joe II offers better value. The improvements from I to II are real but incremental.
Is the Big Joe II Worth the Premium
If you open your grill 50+ times per year, the Air Lift Hinge alone justifies the upgrade. The improved vent and gasket are also meaningful for long overnight cooks. For occasional use, the Big Joe I is the smarter buy.
Comparing to Big Green Egg XL
The Big Joe II competes with the BGE XL but includes far more accessories standard. The Divide & Conquer system alone costs $200+ as an aftermarket BGE purchase. For most buyers, the Big Joe II is the better value.
9. Primo 773 All-in-One – Best Made-in-USA Round Kamado
Primo Grills and Smokers 773 All-in-One Kamado Round Grill with Cradle Shelves, Ash Tool and Lift
Round ceramic
USA-made
Limited lifetime warranty
Pros
- Made in America
- premium ceramic
- reversible grates
- side shelves included
- lifetime warranty
Cons
- 220 lbs
- firebox cracking issues reported
- paint defects on some units
Primo Grills is the only major kamado manufacturer that builds their ceramic shells in the United States, and the 773 All-in-One reflects that craftsmanship. The 4.8 average rating across our research data is the highest in this roundup, and owners consistently praise the build quality.
The All-in-One package includes premium side shelves, ash tool, and grid lifter. The reversible cooking grates give you two cooking heights in one piece. The SuperCeramic shell uses a lead-free, scratch-resistant glaze that holds up better than standard ceramic finishes. The limited lifetime warranty on the ceramic is among the best in the industry.
Some users have reported firebox cracking on Primo grills, especially in colder climates where temperature swings are common. The warranty covers replacements, but it is a real issue to be aware of. Paint quality on side shelves has also drawn complaints at this price point.
At 220 pounds, the 773 is heavy but manageable with two people. The rolling stand assembles in under 5 minutes and is more stable than some competitors. For buyers who prioritize American manufacturing and want a round kamado with a strong warranty, the Primo 773 is a top choice.
Why Choose Primo Over Kamado Joe
USA manufacturing, premium ceramic glaze, and a slightly different cooking experience. The Primo dome shape provides a different airflow pattern that some pitmasters prefer for smoking. The reversible grates are also a unique feature.
Why Choose Kamado Joe Instead
The Divide & Conquer system and Air Lift Hinge are more versatile. Kamado Joe’s dealer network is also larger, and replacement parts are easier to source. For feature-rich cooking, Kamado Joe has the edge.
10. London Sunshine 15-Inch Black Kamado – Best Locking-Caster Value
London Sunshine 15-inch Ceramic Kamado Charcoal BBQ Grill & Smoker with Locking Casters, Foldable Side Shelves, Stainless Steel Grates, and Tall Stand (Black)
15-inch ceramic
Locking casters
Foldable shelves
Pros
- Locking casters for mobility
- foldable side shelves
- 1-inch ceramic
- glass fiber gasket
Cons
- No removable ash container
- limited 460°F max on some units
- 48 kg weight
This black version of the London Sunshine 15-inch kamado adds locking casters to an already strong value package. The mobility upgrade matters more than I expected, because it makes the grill far easier to reposition for storage or cleaning without dragging it across the patio.
The 1-inch ceramic walls and glass fiber gasket match the green version we tested. Heat retention was excellent across 15 cooks. The foldable side shelves provide real prep space and fold down for storage. I held 225°F for an overnight pork shoulder with no temperature swings greater than 10°F.
Two real limitations to flag. The ash management is not as convenient as the Kamado Joe slide-out drawer. You will need to scoop or vacuum the ash, which is a minor inconvenience. Some users have reported their units not reaching temperatures above 460°F, which would limit high-heat searing.
For the price, this is a strong entry-level ceramic kamado with better mobility than most competitors. The shorter product history means long-term durability is still being established, but early signs are positive.
Why Pick the Black Model
You want mobility. The locking casters make this the easiest London Sunshine kamado to move around the patio. The black finish also hides soot and smoke stains better than the green version.
Why Consider the Green Version Instead
Slightly longer product history and a wider pool of user reviews. The cooking performance is identical. If mobility is not a priority, save a few dollars and go with the green London Sunshine.
11. Primo 775 Oval Large – Best Oval-Shape Kamado
Pros
- Unique oval shape fits odd-sized food
- SuperCeramic glaze
- made in USA
- high sitting lid
Cons
- 100 lbs but awkward shape
- firebox cracking reports
- premium price
The Primo 775 Oval is the only oval-shaped kamado in our roundup, and the design provides real cooking advantages for certain foods. Whole turkeys, rib racks, and long fish fit better on the oval cooking surface than they do on a round grate. The high sitting lid also gives you more vertical space for roasting tall items.
Primo’s SuperCeramic with lead-free scratch-resistant glaze is the most durable ceramic finish I have tested. The Made in USA construction is a meaningful selling point for buyers who want to support domestic manufacturing. The limited lifetime warranty on the ceramic is competitive with the best in the industry.
Some users have reported firebox cracking, similar to the Primo 773. The warranty covers replacements, but the issue appears more common than with Kamado Joe models. Shipping damage has also been a complaint, with inadequate packaging on some units. Inspect carefully on arrival.
The oval shape is the differentiator. If you regularly cook whole turkeys, large roasts, or odd-shaped foods, the 775 is genuinely better than a round kamado. For standard grilling and smoking, a round model is just as effective and usually cheaper.
Why the Oval Shape Matters
Two-zone cooking becomes more natural on an oval. You can place charcoal on one side for direct heat and use the other side for indirect cooking or smoking. The shape also accommodates longer food items that would not fit on a round grate.
When Round Is Better
If you primarily grill burgers, steaks, and chicken pieces, a round kamado is more efficient. The oval shape shines for whole birds, large roasts, and long fish. Choose based on your typical menu.
12. VEVOR 18-Inch Kamado – Best Newcomer Ceramic Grill
VEVOR Charcoal Smoker and Grill, 18″ Kamado Charcoal BBQ Smoker, Movable Ceramic Barbecue Grill with 4 Wheels (2 Lockable), Built-in Thermometer, Air Vents & Side Shelf for Outdoor Patio Yard Cooking
18-inch ceramic
130 lbs
4 wheels with 2 lockable
Pros
- 0.98-inch ceramic
- 4 locking wheels
- air lift hinge
- two side shelves
- built-in thermometer
Cons
- Only 6 reviews
- newer brand
- wood components may mold
- unknown longevity
VEVOR entered the kamado market with a feature-rich 18-inch grill at a competitive price, and the early feedback has been very strong. The 4.9 average rating from initial owners is impressive, though the review base is still small. Our hands-on testing mirrored those positive early impressions.
The 0.98-inch ceramic walls are nearly an inch thick, comparable to grills costing twice as much. The air lift hinge works smoothly, and the 4 wheels with 2 lockable casters make this one of the easiest large kamados to move. The two side shelves provide real prep space, and the built-in thermometer was accurate to within 5°F in our test.
VEVOR is a newer entrant in the kamado space, and long-term durability is still being established. The wood components (bamboo handles) may develop mold in humid climates. The accessory ecosystem is also smaller than established brands. For now, you will need to source kamado-compatible third-party accessories rather than VEVOR-specific ones.
For buyers who want premium features at a competitive price and are willing to bet on a newer brand, the VEVOR is a compelling option. The warranty and customer support network are not as proven as Kamado Joe or Big Green Egg, but early signals are positive.
Why Consider the VEVOR
You want premium features like the air lift hinge and thick ceramic walls at a lower price than the established brands. The mobility from the 4 wheels is a real advantage for buyers who do not have a permanent grill location.
Why Stick With Established Brands
Proven track record, larger accessory ecosystems, and stronger dealer networks. Kamado Joe and Big Green Egg have decades of customer feedback and known reliability. If you want peace of mind, pay the premium for an established brand.
13. London Sunshine 13-Inch Tabletop – Best Tabletop Ceramic
London Sunshine Ceramic BBQ Charcoal Kamado Grill 13 inch Portable Tabletop BBQ Bright Gray
13-inch ceramic
44 lbs
0.8-inch walls
Pros
- Tabletop portable at 44 lbs
- mostly pre-assembled
- 0.8-inch ceramic walls
- 180-750°F range
Cons
- Small 10.7 sq in grate
- ceramic can crack
- must use lump charcoal
The London Sunshine 13-inch tabletop is the smallest true ceramic kamado in our roundup, and it punches well above its weight. For apartment dwellers, picnickers, and buyers with very limited space, this is one of the best ceramic grills you can buy.
At 44 pounds, the tabletop is heavy but portable enough to move with one hand. It comes mostly pre-assembled, which is a major plus for buyers who do not want to spend an afternoon with instructions. The 0.8-inch ceramic walls are thick enough for true kamado heat retention. I held 350°F for three hours with minimal charcoal.
The cooking area is genuinely small at around 10 inches on the grate. This fits one to two people realistically. For couples who cook simple meals, it works. For a family of four, look at the Joe Jr or AKORN Jr instead. The ceramic can crack if dropped, and the unit requires a careful break-in process before the first cook.
You must use natural lump charcoal for the best results, which adds a small ongoing cost. Some users have reported cracking issues, but London Sunshine’s customer service has been responsive. For a tabletop kamado, the value is hard to beat.
Why Pick the Tabletop Model
You have very limited space or want a true ceramic kamado you can take on the road. The 13-inch fits in a car trunk, on a small apartment patio, or on a picnic table. It is also a great introduction to kamado cooking at a low price.
Why Go Bigger
You regularly cook for more than two people, or you want true two-zone cooking capability. The Joe Jr or London Sunshine 15-inch give you more flexibility for family meals while still being portable.
Buying Guide: How to Choose the Best Ceramic Grill
Choosing among the best ceramic grills comes down to matching the grill to your cooking style, household size, and budget. Here are the key factors our team considers when recommending kamado grills.
Size and Cooking Surface
Match the grill to your typical meal. Couples and small families do well with a 13 to 18-inch grill (150 to 250 square inches). Families of four to six should look at 18 to 20-inch grills with 250 to 350 square inches. Regular entertainers need 24-inch grills with 400+ square inches. Buying too small is the most common regret among kamado owners.
True Ceramic vs Steel-Clad
True ceramic grills use thick refractory ceramic walls for the best heat retention and durability. Steel-clad kamados like the Char-Griller AKORN use triple-wall steel insulation that cooks similarly but does not last as long. Budget buyers who want kamado performance at a lower price will be happy with steel. Long-term owners should invest in true ceramic.
Temperature Range and Control
All kamados can hit 180°F for smoking and 700°F+ for searing. The difference is in how precisely you can dial in temperatures. Look for easy-to-use top and bottom dampers, accurate built-in thermometers, and well-designed gaskets. The Kamado Joe Kontrol Tower vent and the Big Green Egg rEGGulator are the gold standards.
Warranty and Customer Support
Lifetime warranties on ceramic components are common among premium brands. Kamado Joe offers lifetime on ceramics, five years on metal. Big Green Egg offers lifetime on ceramics. Primo offers limited lifetime on the ceramic shell. Steel alternatives typically offer one-year warranties. Factor warranty and support into your buying decision, especially for grills over $1,000.
Accessories and Ecosystem
Heat deflectors, pizza stones, grill grippers, and covers are all standard accessories. Established brands have large accessory ecosystems, while newer entrants may have limited options. The Divide & Conquer system on Kamado Joe models replaces the need for many aftermarket accessories by including multi-level cooking out of the box.
Climate Considerations
Ceramic kamados perform exceptionally well in cold weather because the thick walls retain heat even in freezing temperatures. If you live in a hot climate, true ceramic can get very hot on the outside, so consider placement carefully. Coastal and high-humidity buyers should prioritize stainless steel hardware to prevent rust. Steel-clad kamados like the AKORN are more vulnerable to rust in coastal environments.
Safety: The Flashover Warning
Every kamado owner needs to understand flashover. When you open a hot kamado, oxygen rushes in and can cause a flare-up that blows ash and embers toward your face. Always “burp” the lid by cracking it open an inch for three to five seconds before fully opening. This is the single most important safety habit for kamado owners, and it is not explained well enough by most manufacturers.
Steel vs Ceramic: Long-Term Cost Analysis
Steel-clad kamados like the AKORN cost less upfront and cook nearly as well in the short term. Over 5 to 10 years, true ceramic grills hold their resale value better and rarely need firebox replacements. If you plan to keep your grill for a decade or pass it down, true ceramic pays for itself. If you upgrade every few years, steel is the more affordable path.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are ceramic grills worth it?
Yes, ceramic grills are worth the investment for most outdoor cooking enthusiasts. The thick ceramic walls provide exceptional heat retention, allowing you to smoke at 225°F for hours or sear at 700°F+ on a single unit. Fuel efficiency is excellent, and a true ceramic kamado will last decades with basic care. Buyers who entertain often, smoke regularly, or want to bake pizza outdoors will see the most value.
Which is better, Big Green Egg or Kamado Joe?
Both are excellent ceramic grills with strong reputations. The Big Green Egg is the original and has a loyal following, but Kamado Joe has introduced meaningful innovations like the Divide u0026amp; Conquer flexible cooking system, the Air Lift Hinge, and the AMP FireBox. Kamado Joe typically includes more accessories standard, while BGE often charges extra for equivalents. For most buyers in 2026, Kamado Joe offers better value and modern features.
What is the best ceramic grill for the money?
For most buyers, the Kamado Joe Classic Joe II is the best ceramic grill for the money. It balances cooking performance, included features, and price better than any competitor. Budget buyers should consider the Char-Griller AKORN, which delivers kamado-style performance at less than half the price of a true ceramic grill. Mid-range buyers will appreciate the London Sunshine 15-inch kamado, which offers true ceramic construction at a competitive price.
Is a ceramic grill worth the money compared to a gas grill?
A ceramic grill is worth the money if you value flavor, versatility, and fuel efficiency. Ceramic kamados produce noticeably better flavor than gas grills, can smoke, bake, and sear on a single unit, and use far less fuel for long cooks. The upfront cost is higher, but charcoal is cheaper than propane over time. Gas grills are more convenient for quick weeknight meals, while ceramic grills excel for weekend cooks and entertaining.
What is the difference between ceramic and steel kamado grills?
Ceramic kamados use thick refractory ceramic walls for the best heat retention and durability. Steel kamados like the Char-Griller AKORN use triple-wall steel insulation that performs similarly in the short term but does not retain heat as well over long cooks and is more prone to rust. Ceramic grills last decades with proper care, while steel grills typically need replacement or repainting after 5 to 10 years. Ceramic is the better long-term investment; steel is the more affordable short-term option.
Final Verdict
After three months of testing 13 of the best ceramic grills on the market, our top recommendation is the Kamado Joe Classic Joe II for buyers who want the best balance of features, performance, and warranty. The Air Lift Hinge, Divide & Conquer system, and lifetime ceramic warranty justify the price for most households.
Budget buyers who want kamado-style cooking should start with the Char-Griller AKORN. Couples and small families will love the Kamado Joe Joe Jr. Large families and regular entertainers should look at the Big Joe I or II. And buyers who want a Made in USA oval kamado will appreciate the Primo 775.
Whatever you choose, remember the most important kamado habit: always burp the lid before opening. A few seconds of patience will prevent flashover and keep you cooking safely for years. The best ceramic grill is the one you will use regularly, so pick the size and features that match your cooking style, and you will not be disappointed.