Kamado Joe vs Komodo Kamado
An In Depth Look at Both
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Introduction
One year ago, I made the switch from producing content about the Komodo Kamado to focusing on the Kamado Joe, and since then, you guys have repeatedly asked for a comparison between the two. I've always said it's not a fair comparison, but today, I'm going to show you why. What's up, barbecue fans? My name is Jake, and today, we're diving into the differences between the Komodo Kamado and the Kamado Joe.
Initial Overview
Let's get one thing straight from the start: we're talking about a mass-produced consumer product versus a luxury handmade product. The Kamado Joe is a well-known mass-produced grill, while the Komodo Kamado is a high-end, hand-crafted piece. For reference, I have a Series 3 Kamado Joe, which is priced around $3,000 today. The Komodo Kamado, specifically the 23-inch model, starts at about $4,600, and that's before you add side tables and other accessories, which can push the price to roughly $5,500 or more. The 32-inch model, which I own, sells three times more than the 23-inch, giving you an idea of its popularity despite the higher cost.
Cover Quality
One of the first differences you'll notice is the cover quality. I spent $240 on a cover for my Kamado Joe, and it turned gray within 4-5 months. This is my second cover in a year, and it's already fading. On the other hand, the Komodo Kamado cover, made with Sunbrella fabric, remains as black as the day I bought it, even after a year of use. If you invest in a high-quality grill, you expect the cover to maintain its appearance, and the Komodo Kamado delivers on that front.
Side Tables
Both grills come with side tables, but their designs differ significantly. The Komodo Kamado tables hang on the side and can be made of teak or teak with a stainless steel insert, offering both functionality and aesthetics. The Kamado Joe Series 3 features aluminum side tables, which are a big upgrade from the previous model's plastic ones. While functional, they don't offer the same luxury feel as the Komodo Kamado's options.
Ventilation and Airflow Control
Controlling airflow is crucial for maintaining the right cooking temperature. The Kamado Joe has a top vent and a bottom vent, allowing for decent temperature control. However, the top vent can get gummed up with residue, making adjustments difficult over time. In contrast, the Komodo Kamado features a coarse-threaded vent that allows for precise adjustments with minimal effort. It also has a gasket that ensures an airtight seal, further enhancing temperature stability.
Interior and Cooking Capacity
The cooking setups inside these grills also highlight their differences. The Kamado Joe has a standard grate setup with three levels and an optional grill expander, allowing for versatile cooking arrangements. Meanwhile, the Komodo Kamado includes multiple grates and a top expander as standard, offering more cooking area and flexibility right out of the box. The Komodo Kamado's firebox is designed to maximize airflow through the lump charcoal, ensuring consistent temperatures with less frequent cleanings compared to the Kamado Joe.
Rotisserie Functionality
Both grills support rotisserie cooking, but their implementations vary. The Kamado Joe uses a JoeTisserie accessory that can be a bit tricky to seal properly, while the Komodo Kamado has an integrated, spring-loaded system that ensures a perfect seal every time, maintaining consistent airflow and temperature control during rotisserie cooking.
Heat Retention and Material Quality
One of the most significant differences is the thermal mass and material quality. The Kamado Joe weighs around 372 pounds and gets very hot to the touch during high-temperature cooks. In contrast, the Komodo Kamado, weighing about 950 pounds, uses refractory cement with an insulation layer, making it incredibly efficient at retaining heat. This grill gets warm but not dangerously hot, and it maintains stable cooking temperatures with minimal airflow changes, thanks to its airtight construction.
Durability and Build Quality
The Komodo Kamado is handmade in Indonesia, featuring over 4,000 hand-placed tiles and 125 pounds of stainless steel components, including all grates and accessories. This craftsmanship ensures a durable, long-lasting product that justifies its higher price tag. The Kamado Joe, while well-made, is a mass-produced item and offers a different level of detail and durability than the Komodo Kamado.
Conclusion
In conclusion, while both the Kamado Joe and the Komodo Kamado are excellent grills, they cater to different markets and offer distinct experiences. The Kamado Joe is a great choice for those looking for a reliable, mass-produced grill with good functionality. On the other hand, the Komodo Kamado is a premium, handmade product that excels in durability, heat retention, and overall cooking performance, making it worth the investment for serious barbecue enthusiasts. Both grills will last a long time if well-maintained, but the Komodo Kamado's superior build quality and materials give it a clear edge in terms of long-term value and performance.
Thanks for watching
Whether you're a seasoned pitmaster or a novice, these tips will enhance your cooking skills and leave your family and friends raving about your delicious, smoky creations. Don't forget to subscribe to my YouTube channel for more step-by-step videos, and let's together become the barbecue heroes we were meant to be!
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