The Kamado Joe Konnected Joe blends traditional kamado cooking with modern digital technology, offering stable temperature control and automatic ignition. Reviewers praised its rapid heating, consistent performance, and versatility, especially for beginners and tech enthusiasts. However, some noted the 18-inch size as restrictive and the app as basic. It's ideal for those wanting a tech-enhanced charcoal experience but may not suit users seeking larger cooking capacity or advanced smart features.
Full review
Smart Technology Integration
The Kamado Joe Konnected Joe represents a significant evolution in traditional kamado grilling by integrating modern digital controls while maintaining the core ceramic cooking philosophy. Professional reviewer from Food & Wine noted that the grill's Automatic Fire Starter (AFS) system eliminates the need for third-party fire starters, making ignition faster and more convenient. The digital Kontrol Board and accompanying app allow users to set temperatures, monitor cooks, and manage their grill from anywhere. According to the same reviewer, setup was straightforward with pictogram-style instructions and took about 40 minutes for two people unfamiliar with the product. The control panel handles airflow adjustments automatically, guiding users through the process of setting the top vent to achieve target temperatures. The Konnected Joe can operate in both Automatic Cook Mode for hands-free precision and Traditional Mode for classic kamado control, offering flexibility for different cooking preferences.
However, the app's functionality has received mixed reviews. While it's described as intuitive by Food & Wine's Greg Baker, some users have noted its basic capabilities. The Kamado Joe website mentions that the app allows for temperature monitoring, setting alerts for food internal temperatures, and countdown timers, but the interface may not yet offer the sophistication some users expect. The device requires a 2.4GHz Wi-Fi network, which can be problematic for users with single SSID setups that only broadcast 5GHz signals. Additionally, the grill maintains full functionality even without WiFi or power through Bluetooth connectivity and analog mode, which is valuable for outdoor use where internet access may be limited.
Build Quality and Design
The Konnected Joe is built on the proven Classic Joe platform, inheriting the robust ceramic construction that makes kamado grills so popular. The grill weighs 216 pounds, which, according to Gear and Grit's Kevin Curry, makes assembly challenging but manageable with assistance. The ceramic construction provides excellent heat retention and temperature stability, with the AMP Firebox and fiberglass mesh gasket enhancing durability. The grill features a powder-coated steel cart with a storage shelf, replacing the older plastic fold-up shelves found on classic models. The Konnected Joe also includes solid aluminum side shelves, which are more durable than the plastic components of previous models. The grill's design includes an Air Lift™ hinge that reduces dome weight for easier operation, and a Kontrol Tower™ Top Vent that maintains steady airflow settings during cooking and dome openings.
Despite its solid build quality, the Konnected Joe has received criticism regarding its size. Rum and Cook noted that the 18-inch diameter feels limiting, especially for larger cooks or when using two-zone cooking techniques. The company's own website indicates that the Big Joe Konnected model offers a 24-inch diameter with 450 sq in cooking surface, which is more generous than the standard size. However, the Konnected Joe's dimensions are still considered somewhat restrictive by some users who prefer larger cooking surfaces for full racks of ribs or whole packer briskets. The shipping packaging also received criticism for excessive styrofoam use, which some reviewers felt was environmentally unfriendly despite being necessary for protecting the heavy ceramic grill.
Real-World Performance
Testing conducted by multiple reviewers confirmed the Konnected Joe's ability to reach and maintain precise temperatures across a wide range. Food & Wine's Greg Baker reported that the grill reached 250°F in 23 minutes from ambient temperature of 62°F, and achieved 400°F in about 11 minutes when raising the heat. The grill demonstrated exceptional temperature stability, maintaining a consistent 225°F for over six hours during a low-and-slow cook without any significant fluctuations except when the lid was opened. The control system's ability to maintain temperature precision was also validated by Gear and Grit's Kevin Curry, who noted that the built-in controls prevent overshooting and make the Konnected Joe very efficient with charcoal usage. Curry reported using less charcoal compared to manual temperature control methods, which he attributed to the grill's precise airflow management.
The Konnected Joe's performance was also tested with various cooking methods including rotisserie, low-and-slow smoking, and direct grilling. Curry's tomahawk steak cook demonstrated the system's effectiveness, with alerts from the app notifying him when the internal temperature reached 115°F, allowing for precise timing of the reverse sear process. The grill's ability to transition from low-and-slow cooking to high-heat searing was seamless, with the control system maintaining temperature stability throughout the process. Additionally, the grill's three probe ports allow monitoring of multiple foods simultaneously, which proved useful during complex cooking sessions involving different temperature zones.
What Reviewers Loved
Reviewers consistently praised the Konnected Joe's temperature control and ease of use. The automatic fire starter system was particularly well-received, with multiple reviewers noting how it eliminated the need for third-party fire starters and made ignition faster and more convenient. Food & Wine's Greg Baker highlighted the grill's ability to reach target temperatures quickly, stating that it rose from ambient to 250°F in 23 minutes and to 400°F in 11 minutes. The digital Kontrol Board and app were also praised for their intuitive interface and functionality, with Gear and Grit's Kevin Curry noting that the system's ability to automatically adjust airflow made it very efficient with charcoal usage. The grill's ability to maintain consistent temperatures during extended cooking sessions was another major selling point, with reviewers noting that it held temperature right on target even during overnight cooks.
The Konnected Joe's versatility was another frequently mentioned positive aspect. Multiple reviewers noted that it could handle everything from searing steaks at high temperatures to slow-cooking briskets at low temperatures, with the control system managing the transition seamlessly. The grill's two-tier cooking system allows for true multi-zone cooking, which was particularly appreciated by users who wanted to cook different foods at different temperatures simultaneously. The inclusion of multiple probe ports for monitoring food temperatures was also well-received, as it allowed for precise monitoring of multiple items without requiring constant attention. The grill's compatibility with existing accessories like the JoeTisserie and DoJoe was also noted as a significant advantage.
Where It Falls Short
Despite its many strengths, the Konnected Joe has several notable drawbacks that reviewers have pointed out. The most significant criticism concerns the app's functionality, which some reviewers found basic and lacking in sophistication compared to more advanced smart home devices. The requirement for 2.4GHz Wi-Fi networks was also seen as problematic by users with modern home networks that only broadcast 5GHz signals. The grill's size was another major concern, with reviewers like Rum and Cook noting that the 18-inch diameter feels limiting for larger cooking sessions. The shipping packaging received criticism for excessive styrofoam use, which reviewers felt was environmentally unfriendly despite being necessary for protecting the heavy ceramic grill.
The Konnected Joe's price point was also a concern for some reviewers. At $2,999.99, it represents a significant investment, and some users questioned whether the digital features justified the premium cost. The grill's weight, at 216 pounds, was also noted as a challenge for assembly and relocation. Additionally, while the automatic features are convenient, they may not appeal to traditionalists who prefer the hands-on approach of manual kamado cooking. Some reviewers noted that the grill's ceramic construction, while excellent for heat retention, also makes it quite heavy and difficult to move around, which could be a disadvantage for users who frequently relocate their grills.
Who It's Best For
The Konnected Joe is best suited for users who value convenience and precision in their grilling experience. Based on reviews from multiple sources, it appeals to tech enthusiasts who enjoy leveraging technology for cooking convenience, as well as safety-conscious cooks who prefer automatic ignition over manual methods. Beginners to charcoal cooking will find the digital controls helpful in learning proper temperature management, according to Rum and Cook's review. The grill is particularly appealing to those who want to avoid the learning curve associated with traditional kamado grills while still enjoying the benefits of ceramic cooking. Users who frequently cook multiple foods simultaneously or require precise temperature control for extended cooking sessions will benefit most from the Konnected Joe's features.
However, the Konnected Joe may not be ideal for traditionalists who prefer the hands-on approach of manual kamado cooking. Users who primarily cook at very high temperatures or require maximum cooking surface area may find the grill's size limiting. Additionally, those with modern home networks that only broadcast 5GHz signals may encounter difficulties with the required 2.4GHz connectivity. The grill's price point of $2,999.99 may also be prohibitive for budget-conscious consumers who are satisfied with basic kamado functionality. Users who frequently relocate their grills or need a lighter, more portable option may also find the 216-pound weight to be a disadvantage.
How It Compares to Alternatives
The Konnected Joe competes with both traditional kamado grills and modern pellet grills, each offering distinct advantages. Compared to traditional kamado grills, the Konnected Joe offers superior temperature control and convenience through its digital features, while maintaining the ceramic heat retention and flavor profile that makes kamados so popular. Unlike pellet grills, which can reach maximum temperatures of 500°F but often experience temperature swings and require constant monitoring, the Konnected Joe provides stable temperatures with minimal intervention. However, pellet grills offer the advantage of automatic hardwood-smoked flavor at low temperatures, which the Konnected Joe cannot replicate without additional wood chunks.
When compared to other smart grills in the market, the Konnected Joe stands out for its ceramic construction and traditional kamado cooking methods. While some competitors offer more advanced app features or additional connectivity options, the Konnected Joe's focus on maintaining the authentic kamado experience while adding digital convenience creates a unique value proposition. The grill's ability to function fully without WiFi or power makes it more versatile than some smart grills that lose functionality during power outages. However, the Konnected Joe's price point of $2,999.99 is higher than many competing products, which may limit its appeal to budget-conscious consumers.
Value at This Price
The Konnected Joe's price point of $2,999.99 represents a significant investment, but reviewers have noted several factors that justify the cost. The grill's combination of traditional kamado benefits with modern digital convenience provides a unique value proposition that many reviewers found compelling. The ceramic construction, which provides excellent heat retention and temperature stability, is a premium feature that justifies the higher price point. The automatic fire starter system and digital temperature control eliminate common frustrations associated with traditional kamado grills, such as difficulty reaching and maintaining target temperatures. Additionally, the grill's compatibility with existing accessories like the JoeTisserie and DoJoe extends its utility beyond basic grilling.
However, the value proposition is not universally agreed upon. Some reviewers questioned whether the digital features warranted the premium cost, especially for users who are comfortable with traditional kamado methods. The requirement for 2.4GHz Wi-Fi and the grill's weight were also factors that some reviewers felt could be drawbacks. The Konnected Joe's performance in real-world testing, including its ability to maintain consistent temperatures for extended periods and its efficiency with charcoal usage, supports the argument that the investment is worthwhile for users who value convenience and precision. The grill's build quality and durability, with features like the AMP Firebox and fiberglass mesh gasket, also contribute to its long-term value proposition.
Strengths
- +Automatic Fire Starter (AFS) system eliminates need for third-party fire starters
- +Fan-assisted system rapidly reaches set temperature
- +Computer-controlled temperature regulation provides incredibly stable internal temperature
- +Full manual cooking option available alongside app-enabled controls
Watch-outs
- −Size limited to 18-inch diameter which feels limiting for larger cooks
- −Basic app functionality with limited advanced features
How it compares
The Konnected Joe's automatic fire starter and fan-assisted temperature control set it apart from the Classic Joe and Big Joe models, which rely on manual controls. While it offers digital convenience, it lacks the larger cooking capacity of the Brand-Man Rodeo and the 2-tier system of the Classic Joe. It's more tech-oriented than the traditional London Sunshine or Outvita models.
Who this is for
At a glance: Tech-savvy beginners wanting smart kamado features.
Why you’d buy the Kamado Joe Konnected Joe Digital Charcoal Grill and Smoker
- Automatic Fire Starter (AFS) system eliminates need for third-party fire starters.
- Fan-assisted system rapidly reaches set temperature.
- Computer-controlled temperature regulation provides incredibly stable internal temperature.
Why you’d skip it
- Size limited to 18-inch diameter which feels limiting for larger cooks.
- Basic app functionality with limited advanced features.
Rating sources
“The option to switch between automatic and manual modes offers great flexibility.”
“Kamado Joes Big Joe Konnected Joe (thats a lot of Joe!) has been the only one keeping the home fires burning the last few weeks.”
“I received the Konnected model, plus a full array of punnily-named accessories, a "culinary jungle gym," as the brand describes it, and put it to the test. Here's how this first-of-its-kind grill performed in my home tests and against other kamados we tested.”
“The Konnected Joe builds on the classic, at first glance it looks very similar, it's still the 18-inch ceramic kamado I've come to love, only this one is fully automatic.”
Our 4.3 score is the average of these published ratings. 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.
