The Alternative Grill That Stands Toe-To-Toe With Kamado Joe While Being 80% Cheaper

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The Kamado Joe is one of the most elite kamado grills on the market. The ceramic grill offers incredible temperature precision, allowing users to smoke, sear, roast, and even slow-cook dishes. However, Char-Griller offers a much more affordable option that can do all of the above at a fraction of the cost. 

The Char-Griller Akorn Kamado is a 20-inch charcoal grill that is comparable to the 18-inch Kamado Joe Series III. Both grills offer the incredible temperature control and versatility kamado grills are known for, so you can make everything from brisket to pizza to steak to rotisserie chicken. Each boasts the ability to maintain low temperatures for slow-roasting and smoking and high temperatures for searing. The Char-Griller Akorn can heat up to 700 degrees Fahrenheit, while the Kamado Joe Series III can reach 750 degrees Fahrenheit. 

Prices vary based on where and when you purchase your grill, but the Kamado Joe Series III is currently $1,799 on Amazon or $2,199.99 on the Kamado Joe website, while the Char-Griller Akorn Kamado is only $399.99 on Amazon. This makes it the perfect entry point for people who are new to kamado-style cooking. It also weighs in at only 97 pounds compared to Kamado Joe's 286 pounds, which means the Char-Griller is easier to move and store. 

The Kamado Joe Series III is so heavy because it is made with ceramic. Ceramic is durable, long-lasting, and retains heat exceptionally well, which is why it has traditionally been used for kamado cooking. However, the triple-wall insulation of the steel Char-Griller Akorn is a respectable substitute, as it closely mimics the Kamado Joe's heat-retention abilities. 

The Char-Griller Akorn is highly rated on Amazon, with reviewers saying that the heat retention is excellent. One reviewer says, "Even at 30 degrees outside, they maintain temperature beautifully. They also use very little charcoal, and you can cook for hours without adding more." Finally, the grillmaster can sit and relax instead of stoking charcoal all day!

Other reviewers say the Char-Griller Akorn is the best choice for new kamado grillers, especially considering the exorbitant cost of ceramic kamado grills. One person writes, "Given that the cheapest ceramic kamado is almost double the price of the Akorn and heavier to boot, the Akorn is a perfect starter kamado with 80% of the benefits at 30% – 50% the price of comparable ceramic kamados." We've also checked out a few other affordable, top-rated kamado grills here.