The NewAge Platinum Kamado Grill received high praise in a Bob Vila review, with testers noting its impressive 450 square inch cooking surface and superior performance across multiple cooking styles including smoking, searing, and baking. Reviewers highlighted the convenient ash bucket system and overall build quality, though noted the high price point may not suit casual users. The grill's thick ceramic construction and stainless steel vents were praised for temperature control and heat retention. This model is positioned as a premium option for serious grillers seeking versatile outdoor cooking performance.
Full review
Assembly and setup simplicity
The NewAge Platinum Kamado grill demonstrated a notably straightforward assembly process during testing, requiring only the attachment of the top vent and handle. The included tools were sufficient for setup, and the overall process took minimal time. Reviewers noted that the grill arrived with all necessary components, including an ash bucket, charcoal chimney starter, and grates. This ease of initial setup makes it accessible for users who might be new to kamado grills or those looking to avoid the complexity often associated with high-end ceramic grills. The included accessories, such as the charcoal zone divider, were also praised for their practicality in managing cooking space and fuel consumption. The simplicity of assembly was a key factor in user satisfaction, particularly for those who value convenience without sacrificing quality.
Cooking surface and capacity
This enhanced space allows for larger quantities of food to be cooked simultaneously, which is particularly beneficial for entertaining guests or preparing family meals. During testing, the grill's ample surface area enabled the preparation of multiple items at once, including brats, corn on the cob, and a 12-hour pork butt smoke. The design accommodates various cooking styles, from searing to slow smoking, without compromise. The inclusion of a charcoal zone divider further enhances versatility by allowing users to adjust the cooking area based on the amount of food being prepared, making it a flexible option for different cooking needs.
Performance across cooking styles
The grill excelled across a wide range of cooking techniques, including searing, grilling, baking, roasting, and smoking. During a four-day holiday test period, users prepared a variety of dishes, including brats, corn on the cob, and a 12-hour pork butt smoke. The results were consistently praised, with the smoky flavor of slow-cooked meats being particularly notable. The conical shape of the thick ceramic shell effectively harnesses upward air flow, redirecting heat and moisture back down to the cooking surface, which enhances flavor development. The grill's ability to maintain steady temperatures for extended periods was highlighted, with users noting that it required less fuel compared to other models. This performance was especially evident during low-and-slow cooking sessions, where the thick ceramic insulation played a crucial role in temperature stability.
Temperature control and airflow systems
The NewAge Platinum Kamado incorporates stainless steel top and bottom vents that provide precise control over airflow, allowing users to adjust heat levels for both intense searing and slow, controlled cooking. The vents can be fully opened for high-heat searing or closed off for extended low-temperature sessions. This level of control was appreciated by testers, who noted that it allowed for consistent results across different cooking methods. The thick ceramic shell insulates the grill effectively, maintaining internal temperatures for longer periods and reducing fuel consumption. The design also includes a one-piece ceramic firebox with cutouts for uninterrupted airflow and built-in ledges to support the included diffuser, which contributes to efficient heat distribution. These features combine to offer superior temperature regulation compared to many competitors in the same price range.
Design and build quality
The build quality of the NewAge Platinum Kamado was consistently praised, with reviewers noting its durability and attention to detail. The grill features a heavy-duty lid hinge that opens wide, a teak handle grip, and thin accents that contribute to its aesthetic appeal. The included cart with large caster wheels facilitates easy relocation, though its 183-pound weight requires sturdy wheels for mobility. The thick ceramic shell not only provides excellent insulation but also contributes to the grill's robustness. The ash bucket system was highlighted as a significant improvement over traditional ash management methods, offering a cleaner and more convenient experience. The inclusion of extra-thick cooking grates ensures superior heat retention, resulting in signature grill lines and consistent cooking performance. These design elements collectively contribute to a premium feel and long-term usability.
Accessories and additional features
The NewAge Platinum Kamado comes with a comprehensive set of accessories that enhance its functionality and user experience. These include a charcoal zone divider, which allows for flexible cooking space management, and a charcoal chimney starter that simplifies the lighting process. The included ash bucket accelerates airflow for rapid warm-up and ensures a more consistent charcoal burn. Additional features such as the built-in diffuser and the one-piece ceramic firebox with cutouts for uninterrupted airflow contribute to the grill's overall performance. The inclusion of a teak handle grip and a heavy-duty lid hinge demonstrates attention to user comfort and practicality. The grill is also designed to be compatible with various outdoor kitchen setups, offering both mobility through its precision-fit cart and seamless integration into larger kitchen installations. These accessories and features make it a versatile option for users seeking a complete grilling solution.
User experience and family satisfaction
User satisfaction with the NewAge Platinum Kamado was notably high, particularly among families who tested the grill during extended weekend sessions. The ability to cook multiple items simultaneously and the consistent results across various cooking styles contributed to its popularity. Users appreciated the convenience of the ash bucket system, which simplified cleanup compared to traditional methods. The grill's performance during a 12-hour smoke of pork butts was particularly praised, with the meat described as tender and delicious. The family's enthusiasm for the grill's versatility was evident, with requests for future burger preparations indicating a high level of satisfaction. The overall user experience was described as positive, with the grill's ease of use and consistent performance making it a standout choice for regular outdoor cooking.
Strengths
- +Ample cooking surface space with 450 square inches of cooking area
- +Straightforward assembly process with included tools
- +Effective ash bucket system that's more convenient than typical grill ash systems
- +Searing, grilling, baking, roasting, and smoking capabilities all perform well
- +Durable construction with thick ceramic shell that retains heat and moisture
Watch-outs
- −High price point that may not suit casual grillers
- −Heavy weight at 183 pounds requiring good wheels for mobility
How it compares
The NewAge Platinum Kamado offers a 450 sq in cooking surface similar to the Big Green Egg XL, but it's less durable and lacks the established brand recognition. Compared to the Kamado Joe Big Joe, it doesn't feature the innovative air lift hinge or modular firebox design, though it does offer a more affordable price point.
Rating sources
“ancient design modern materials timeless style at new age products we're building grills like no one else”
“the family really enjoyed the products of this round of tests and we were very happy with the quality and flavor of these New York strips”
Our 4.4 score is the average of the 2 scored reviews above; 1 more reviewed it without printing a score and is 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.
