Choosing between a Big Green Egg and a Kamado Joe Classic III can be tough. Both are highly-regarded ceramic grills known for their exceptional heat retention and versatility, perfect for everything from searing steaks to low-and-slow smoking. However, subtle yet significant differences in design, features, and price point set them apart. This comparison dives deep into the specifics of each grill, examining their build quality, included accessories, ease of use, and overall value. We'll weigh the pros and cons of each to help you determine which ceramic grill reigns supreme for your needs and budget.This in-depth review will analyze key features like the lid design and ease of operation, comparing the included components and the overall setup experience. We'll explore the differences in their cooking grates, heat deflectors, and charcoal baskets, highlighting the impact on cooking performance and versatility. Finally, we'll consider the cost and value proposition of each grill, taking into account the need for additional accessories and the overall package offered. By the end, you'll have a clear understanding of which grill best fits your cooking style and budget.
Pros And Cons
- Comes with more features than Big Green Egg
- Spring-assisted hood system
- Superior latch system
- Includes cart
- Retractable metal side shelves
- Divide and conquer cooking grate (different levels)
- Half-moon heat deflectors
- Slow roller (creates more smoke)
- Heavy-duty stainless steel charcoal basket
- Charcoal divider
- Individual charcoal bowl pieces (more resistant to thermal damage)
- Better gasket material
- Weatherproof cap
- More affordable than Kamado Joe Classic III
- Many accessories available to customize
- Spring-loaded system is clunky and doesn't lift as high as Kamado Joe's
- Sometimes has thermal damage from the large bowl
- Cart is a separate purchase
Read more: Top 10 Japanese Charcoal Grills: A Buyer's Guide
Design and Build Quality
Both the Big Green Egg and Kamado Joe Classic III are known for their durable ceramic construction. However, there are some key differences. The Big Green Egg's design, while classic, has seen some updates, including a spring-loaded lid system. This new system, while aiming for easier operation, feels a bit clunky compared to the smoother, more intuitive spring-assisted hood of the Kamado Joe. The Big Green Egg's charcoal basket's larger size is a design choice some users find prone to thermal damage.
The Kamado Joe Classic III boasts a more refined design. Its pre-assembled construction simplifies setup significantly compared to the Big Green Egg. The included cart is also a notable advantage, eliminating the need for a separate purchase. The metal side shelves offer better heat resistance than the Big Green Egg's alternatives.
Features and Accessories
The Kamado Joe Classic III comes standard with a comprehensive suite of features that are sold separately for the Big Green Egg. This includes the innovative Slow Roller, a versatile cooking grate that improves airflow and smoke production, ideal for low-and-slow cooking. The included half-moon heat deflectors offer additional cooking flexibility, along with a versatile rack system and a durable charcoal basket.
Big Green Egg, however, compensates with a wide selection of add-on accessories. This allows for customization and tailoring the grill to individual cooking preferences. The Big Green Egg's cart is a separate purchase, impacting the overall price compared to the Kamado Joe's all-in-one setup.
Price and Value
The Big Green Egg is generally more affordable than the Kamado Joe Classic III. This price difference reflects the included accessories and pre-assembled nature of the Kamado Joe. The Big Green Egg offers excellent value for those on a budget seeking a basic ceramic grill, leaving room for customization through add-on accessories.
The Kamado Joe Classic III, while more expensive upfront, delivers a complete package ready to use out of the box. The inclusion of a sturdy cart, various cooking grates, and heat deflectors adds significant value. It's a worthwhile investment for those seeking a high-quality, feature-rich ceramic grill.
Final Verdict
The Kamado Joe Classic III is the winner in terms of overall features and ease of use. The inclusion of the Slow Roller, the pre-assembled construction, and a complete cart makes it a more user-friendly and versatile option. The Big Green Egg, though more affordable, requires additional purchases to match the Classic III's features.
However, the Big Green Egg offers a robust base model, making it an attractive option for those prioritizing budget and intending to customize with accessories. Ultimately, the best choice depends on individual preferences and budget. If budget isn't the primary concern, the Kamado Joe Classic III offers superior value and convenience.