The Kamado Joe Big Joe is praised for its user-friendly air lift hinge, accurate built-in thermometer, and removable ash tray that simplify cleaning. Reviewers highlight the updated modular firebox design and smoke tower as notable improvements. However, some users report issues with the top vent becoming clogged and requiring frequent cleaning, as well as a latch that has broken twice. This large-capacity cooker is ideal for outdoor cooking enthusiasts who frequently entertain large groups, though those with limited space may prefer the smaller Classic II model.
Full review
Lifting the massive lid
The lid on the Kamado Joe Big Joe presents a significant engineering challenge due to its size and weight, yet the inclusion of an air lift hinge system fundamentally transforms this experience. Reviewers noted that the lid can be lifted with minimal effort, even with one finger, a dramatic improvement over traditional ceramic cookers where the lid often requires two people to manage. This design innovation reduces the physical strain and potential for injury during lid handling, particularly important when the grill is fully loaded with charcoal or food. However, the hinge's robustness has been questioned, as one reviewer reported the need for replacement after only a few months of regular use, suggesting that while the initial design is effective, long-term durability may be a concern for heavy users.
Temperature stability and control
The Big Joe's ability to maintain consistent temperatures stands out among ceramic grills, with multiple reviewers noting its exceptional stability across a wide range of cooking conditions. One reviewer documented that the grill maintained a steady 225°F for over six hours without any significant fluctuations, even when the lid was opened for routine monitoring. The dual damper system, which includes a top vent and bottom damper, provides intuitive control that makes it easier for both novice and experienced grillers to achieve desired cooking temperatures. The ceramic construction contributes to this stability, with one reviewer noting that the grill's thermal mass allows it to maintain heat even during brief temperature swings caused by weather conditions or opening the lid for cooking. This consistent performance makes it particularly suitable for low-and-slow cooking methods, where maintaining a steady temperature is critical for achieving tender and flavorful results.
Cooking surface and versatility
This expansive space allows for simultaneous cooking of multiple items, with one reviewer noting that they could cook a whole pig, several racks of ribs, and various side dishes at once. The three-tiered grate system, which can be configured in various combinations, provides flexibility for different cooking styles. The ability to divide the cooking surface into four or six sections allows for precise temperature control zones, enabling users to sear at high heat while smoking at lower temperatures. One reviewer specifically mentioned that the grill's capacity made it ideal for entertaining large groups, with the ability to cook a full meal for 20 people without needing to rotate or reposition food items. The modular design also allows for the use of specialized accessories like the SloRoller insert, which enhances smoking capabilities and allows for even more precise temperature control during long cooking sessions.
Fuel efficiency and performance
Fuel efficiency stands out as a significant advantage of the Big Joe, with reviewers consistently noting that the grill uses significantly less charcoal than expected for its size and cooking capacity. The grill's ceramic construction and efficient air circulation system contribute to this fuel economy, with one reviewer stating that they could maintain temperatures up to 700°F while using less charcoal than they would expect from a traditional kettle grill. The digital kontrol board system also contributes to fuel efficiency by automatically adjusting the airflow to maintain desired temperatures, preventing unnecessary fuel consumption. The ability to maintain high temperatures for extended periods without constant refueling is particularly valuable for long cooking sessions, such as smoking a whole brisket or preparing large meals for gatherings. This efficiency not only saves money on fuel costs but also reduces the frequency of refueling during extended cooking periods.
Assembly and setup challenges
Reviewers noted that the grill arrives on a pallet and requires at least two people to move it into position, with one reviewer describing the process as requiring a 'strong friend' to assist with the initial setup. The modular firebox design, while functional, requires careful alignment of ceramic pieces and can be time-consuming to complete. One reviewer recommended using paper towels to hold components in place during assembly, a tip that helped streamline the process. The inclusion of all necessary tools in the package is appreciated, but the physical effort required to assemble the grill can be daunting for users who are not particularly physically strong or experienced with heavy equipment. The weight of the grill also impacts portability, making it unsuitable for users who need to move their grill frequently or have limited space for storage. The setup process, while manageable, requires patience and physical effort, which may deter casual users who expect a quick and easy setup experience.
Maintenance and cleaning features
The Big Joe includes several design features that significantly improve maintenance and cleaning compared to traditional ceramic grills. The removable ash tray is a standout feature, allowing users to easily remove ash without the need for extensive cleaning or scraping. This design element is particularly appreciated by users who value cleanliness and want to avoid the mess associated with traditional ash removal methods. The modular firebox design, which is updated to resist cracking over time, addresses a common concern with ceramic grills that have been reported by users of older models. One reviewer noted that their previous ceramic grill had experienced cracking issues over several years of use, but the updated design of the Big Joe's firebox appears to address this problem. The grill's ceramic construction also contributes to easier cleaning, as the smooth surfaces do not retain food particles or grease as readily as metal components. The ability to clean the grill without the need for harsh chemicals or extensive scrubbing is a significant advantage for users who want to maintain their grill's appearance and performance over time.
Accessories and expansion options
The Big Joe's accessory ecosystem represents a significant selling point, with numerous expansion options available to enhance functionality and customize the cooking experience. The availability of specialized accessories like the Joetisserie, which is described as a must-have by one reviewer, demonstrates the company's commitment to expanding the grill's capabilities beyond basic cooking. The modular design allows for the addition of extra curved pieces and accessory racks, which can increase the grill's versatility and cooking capacity. One reviewer noted that the ability to add more components to the existing three-tiered grate system allows for even more precise temperature control and cooking flexibility. The inclusion of a complimentary accessory bundle with each grill purchase provides immediate value to users, with the bundle containing items that enhance the basic cooking experience. The company's ongoing development of new accessories, such as the SloRoller insert, shows that the product line continues to evolve and improve, providing users with ongoing opportunities to enhance their grilling capabilities.
Strengths
- +New air lift hinge makes lifting the heavy lid easy with one finger
- +Lid-mounted thermometer is surprisingly accurate for a built-in model
- +Removable ash tray simplifies cleaning
- +Modular firebox design resists cracking over time
- +Includes innovative smoke tower with top vent that stays in position when lid is opened
Watch-outs
- −Top vent (kontrol tower) becomes gummed up after several uses and requires burn-out to clean
- −Latch on lid has broken twice according to reviewer, though customer service replaced it quickly
How it compares
The Kamado Joe Big Joe features an innovative air lift hinge that makes it easier to use than the Big Green Egg XL, but it's less durable and lacks the ceramic construction that makes the Big Green Egg a premium choice. Compared to the Konnected Joe, it doesn't feature smart technology or automatic fire starters, though it provides a more traditional charcoal cooking experience.
Rating sources
“The Kamado Joe Big Joe ceramic cooker is no exception to this rule and is, on the whole, an excellent cooker with some small issues I would love to see improved.”
Our 4.6 score is the average of the 4 scored reviews above; 5 more reviewed it without printing a score and are not in the average. Ratings marked * were derived from the reviewer’s written analysis or video transcript — the publisher didn’t print an explicit numeric score, so we inferred one from their own words. Click through to verify. More about methodology.
