Which BBQ to Buy? Kamado Joe vs Weber Kettle head to head! Kamado Joe Jr. vs. Weber Master-Touch

[@richardzink6026]

Weber kettle is the best grill. I ever had

[@andrewdollins2321]

Having both grills each has their sweet spot. You can get way more value out of a kettle grill. The ceramic can be more flexible if you purchase the right one, but it will cost you 5-10x more for a comparable ceramic. The real difference is how often you want to feed fuel to the fire. The ceramic is 2-6x more efficient with fuel, and it can do better with temperature stability but you pay for it.

[@SmokingDadBBQ]

Great point! thanks Andrew

[@extramurous]

I've been cooking on a Weber for decades and just recently bought a kamado. That was one of the things that first jumped out at me. I roasted a chicken for about 90 minutes and, the next day, couldn't believe how little charcoal had been used. I suppose that, if you did the math, you could claim that, in about 135 years, the kamado will pay for itself in fuel cost savings.

[@choanlpoto]

@@extramurous ahah true I’d we look just to cost for rentability. But for taste if you are not just grilling. The diff is insane. Juicy meat well cooked like nowhere else. Kamado is insane for brisket slow roast, chicken… omg I’m hungry. Gonna cook a burger

[@Mike-zx7lq]

I plan to buy some kind of Kamado in the near future, but the weber kettle is the single best tool I have ever bought. I don't expect that to change even after getting a kamado. The value I've gotten out of that thing is unbelievable. I've done everything I possibly could on it -- chicken, reverse sear steaks, leg of lamb, bbq briskets, smoked jerky, and I've even smoked skillet dishes like ratatouille (omg you guys you have to try that -- the way the smoke infuses the cheese on top is out of this world). I learned how to do everything with no internal accessories, other than aluminum drip pans and foil.

[@redacted6580]

I’ve used gas grills all my life because of time constraints and because that’s what I learned from my father. I bought a Webber kettle about two years ago and I’ll never go back. The flavor is night and day and it’s not as time consuming as I thought. I really enjoy it. Every time I grill my four year old comes out and helps me so hopefully he’ll never grill on gas lol

[@SmokingDadBBQ]

Thank-you, cheers

[@SaltyTales]

Weber team here! 😀😀😀 Love this video is very instructional! Thanks for sharing brother!

[@SmokingDadBBQ]

Thanks so much Ninja, hope I represented both grills fairly and help people on the fence to understand what each of the grills top strengths are. Appreciate you checking it out

[@lavergadezambada]

Ninja!!!!!

[@scottpomygalski6078]

The fact that he has three Kamodo Joes in his backyard kind of made me suspicious.

[@SmokingDadBBQ]

i started with a kettle but yes i do have lots of red going on now ... i think i was fair with the pros and cons for each

[@Billcski]

@@SmokingDadBBQ what type of table do you recommend for a Big Joe 3 ? Have you had any issues with the heat of the KJ warping the table ? Thank you.

[@SmokingDadBBQ]

@@Billcski ​​⁠no issues. I bought a pre fab table for the big joes but this table I made would work just as well. Here is the how to for the table in this video www.smokingdadbbq.com/blog-posts/how-to-build-a-custom-kamado-grill-station

[@Billcski]

@@SmokingDadBBQ thank you

[@zumamaya2396]

Just to add to my earlier comment. I bought the Weber Master Touch Plus with cover, sear grate, griddle, Wok with steamer and igrill mini thermometer for just under $1,000 (Joe Junior is $900) The Classic 2 standalone is $2,300, Big Joe 3 Grill is $5,500!! That's a whole lot of food I can buy if I only get the Weber. Maybe it's the shipping and import costs to NZ.

[@SmokingDadBBQ]

the weber will always win the price value, in my market its just closer than many think for these two models

[@gsavage3441]

Just upgraded from the Weber Kettle to Kamado Joe Classic III and I couldn’t be happier. I loved my Kettle but the KJ is faster to get to temp and it holds the temp better. A lot less messing around.

[@SmokingDadBBQ]

right on

[@Viewtoagrill]

Great overview James on both cookers. I grill 3 or 4 times a week on a kettle and I really don't see the burnt result as you have demonstrated with the bagel... I have no issues cooking indirectly on either of my kettles. On my channel it is just about all Kettle, but I actually own 7 cookers and each one is different as to how they perform and some do better at bbq tasks than others... I guess the right tool for the job. Saying that... I would love to have a kamado but I am running out of space. Great comparison though. Take care James.

[@SmokingDadBBQ]

thanks Johnny. appreciate an experienced kettle expert like yourself weighing in

[@Rocko262c]

Great video. Those you you stuck with a Weber Kettle, for indirect cooking, put one charcoal basket or both on one side of the grill, put a water pan above that, and then place your meat on the opposite side, way better results for indirect cooking rather than the split charcoal basket method shown here.

[@MrSupernova111]

Interesting. Thanks!

[@ThePdxster]

Or buy a Slow n Sear for the Weber

[@Metalmachine18]

When the video starts with two Kamado's built in you know this boys got his favourite haha

[@SmokingDadBBQ]

I have a Weber summit and have had several kettles and WSMs but yes there’s lots of red too

[@charlesnicholson3189]

Would like to see this comparison done with the slow and seer insert in the kettle.

[@deannamcgrew6288]

I know the outcome already, but I wish you’d do a head to head w the Kamado Joe vs the Weber Summit. It’s lighter and less fragile but I ordered the KJ (because I have learned so much from you). I just wish this video existed in your library of tools because I debated for over a year. Ultimately your instruction plus a cost reduction in the KJ Classic II is what lured me to a final decision.

[@JuanCastillo-zv6ob]

Another great video. Been cooking on my Weber 26 inch also have portable 18 inch jumbo joe kettle for tri-tips and bratts . mexican food hands down comes out great on it Roasted corn, carne asada, tacos. I do have a slow and sear for my long cooks, It helps save fuel also.It banks coals and sears steaks great. Kamado is great for pizza, loved the pulled pork off it still learning it. I also have a air leak im tying to fix so it limits my cooking on the kamado. Only thing that runs off propane I got is a blackstone flattop.

[@SmokingDadBBQ]

Love it, where is your air leak?

[@JuanCastillo-zv6ob]

@@SmokingDadBBQ The kamado I got for $215 home depot floor model is a Vision kamado. The pull out try sits a little funny. I got some lavalock gasket coming in.

[@SmokingDadBBQ]

Juan Castillo nice. That should fix it

[@thesmokingplank]

i use a Weber premium kettle every day absolutely love it! someday I will have a kamado.

[@SmokingDadBBQ]

awesome. thanks for checking it out

[@matthewrs7]

I have cooked on propane BBQ my whole life so far. When I had to buy my own BBQ, I went right to kamado because I was attracted to the idea of a BBQ that does NOT rust away and get holes. The versatility of low to high heat was the other benefit. I honestly didn't appreciate the change to charcoal until I started cooking! And I'm also in Canada so I wonder how it will work in -40

[@SmokingDadBBQ]

congratulations on the new grill. i grill year round, it does just fine in extreme temps

[@jimmylarge1148]

Weber’s don’t rust away. I have one from 1985 that I still use. I’ve had to replace the air/cleaning fins that burnt away over the years but other than that it still rocks. Not saying it’s better than others just saying they are the longest lasting grills. We will see on 20 more years how these kamados are holding up.

[@GreenMan-em2jd]

Thank you for making this video! I was one of the people who specifically looked for this. I have a dedicated smoker and I needed something for more quick grilling stuff. Just a classic BBQ type thing

[@SmokingDadBBQ]

absolutely

[@zumamaya2396]

One cool thing about a weber is it works like fire pit on cool evenings. Just bought a new one...my 30 year old weber still works well though. The kamodo looks interesting and i'd love to have both but the weber offers more options for the type of cooking i do. And i frequently use Manuka (New Zealand native) in place of charcoal.

[@SmokingDadBBQ]

Right on

[@chichon01]

I'm discovering the barbecue world. Thank you for your video, very interesting it helps me decide. You are joyfull and its really cool ! Hi from France :)

[@SmokingDadBBQ]

Welcome aboard!

[@MrSupernova111]

Long time Weber user here and your test matches my experience with the Weber. Its a great grill under ideal conditions. But if it rains, its windy, or cold it becomes a challenge to maintain temperature. This would be the main reason for me to upgrade to a Kamado Grill. I might try the Kamado Jr and see how I like before making the commitment to one of the bigger and much more expensive Kamado units. I like that for the price the Weber has a lot of real estate and under ideal conditions it can get the job done. But living in New England, grilling year-round with a Weber is a challenge. Thanks for the video!

[@jeffreyfwagner]

The worry about the Weber kettle rusting is a non-issue. I have owned my Weber since 1986 and it is left outside throughout the year. No problems so far.

[@SmokingDadBBQ]

awesome, thanks for sharing / confirming

[@robservice2433]

Would like to see you do a Weber 22 master touch kettle vs the Kettle Joe shootout

[@beers-jackofbbq]

Great video James! I actually bought the Kamado as my first grill and then got my Weber. My reasoning for the Weber was for the quick cooks, steaks, chicken thighs, etc... The KJ I use for ribs, brisket, pork shoulder, etc... While I can do most everything on both grills, I do like having the options of both. I would agree with you, if the price is not a concern, KJ is the way to go for the first grill away from gas. I still also have a gas grill, my wife likes her steak and chicken breast on the gas grill.

[@SmokingDadBBQ]

Thanks for the insights. I think its great having multiple types of tools if you can so thats awesome. If I lived on a farm the grill situation would get out of hand lol

[@ricksarris3090]

Diddo to that exactly the way I saw it 👍

[@robertdewalt8711]

My first grill was Napoleon 22” Kettle Grill, went through so much charcoal trying to use it winter. After it rusted out my Grill which replaced it was a Vision Classic B I got through Costco, I also got Kamado Joe Jr. which I took on camping trip, I love baking , cooking, searing, smoking over charcoal (lump charcoal). Good job on video and comparisons.

[@SmokingDadBBQ]

Thanks so much, hope I represented each grills strengths and weaknesses well. Glad you liked the video, appreciate you taking the time to watch and comment

[@bucketlist2016]

I just got my first Kamado after coming From a kettle. But don’t worry the 22in kettle isn’t going anywhere. I’m looking forward to having some pork butts on the Kamado with some burgers dogs and veggies on the kettle

[@SmokingDadBBQ]

ryanpatrick16 grill teamwork is the best. Thanks Ryan

[@s0meguy809]

My 18" kettle with the charcoal dividers came out to $117 USD shipped to my door. Joe JR which is still much smaller is $400usd not including tax.

[@SmokingDadBBQ]

Thats a great deal for a Master Touch model shipped with taxes

[@s0meguy809]

@@SmokingDadBBQ Not a master touch. Just a plain Jane 18 kettle that does the same thing. Those "fancier" kettles are a waste of money. They throw a $3 lid holder and junk thermometer on them and charge an extra $80 lol.

[@kingmiller1982]

Bang for your buck the kettle wins

[@SSWA0001]

Its quite funny, I always imagined myself getting a gas BBQ, then I got a Weber Kettle performer as a wedding gift and suddenly I was grilling daily and then started learning and practicing slow cooking and smoking. I've now used my weber for 2 years, roughly 2-3 cooks a week and I love it dearly...BUT have my eyes set on the Monolith Le Chef Kamado or Kamado Joe. Thanks for your videos, very informative. Would like to see a Kamado Joe vs Monolith Kamado if you can get your hands on one!

[@SmokingDadBBQ]

awesome, thanks. haven't seen one in my neck of the woods (canada)

[@SSWA0001]

@@SmokingDadBBQ well I live in Malta which is a tiny island in the south of Europe. Monolith is a German brand and is relatively new on the scene in general though has some rave reviews. In any case. Please do keep up.the great videos, great to watch and really does make me quite keen to try and experiment on a kamado!

[@circaSG07]

Friends don’t let friends sell their kettles, they encourage them to mod their kettles. Grew up with a weber, more used to it. Not as cold in my area. A thing to note however is that the hinged lid does require attention, as the screws can loosen and result in a cracked top. Cheers

[@mckeon1960]

You have an ask catcher in kettle and grill grates lift at sides, hinged gates. Kettle here run at €250-€350 while kamado with same grill gate size is €1000+ the kettle can do low n slow, hot n fat pizza, steaks, bread , rotisserie. Also a basket on a kettle is great help. I grill year round and snake method for a long cook and leave over night, my komado will last longer that is for sure, but I won't be lifting up and bringing with me on a weekend🤣🤣 but they are great grills too

[@SmokingDadBBQ]

the new kettle joe since it came out is a better comparison ... but it is not as portable as a normal kettle so if your main use case is taking it places that doesn't really change whats the best one to have

[@jornreimerdes8438]

Last week I upgraded my 18” Weber cattle to the big joe. Wanted a bigger grill and the Weber is slowly rusting at the small metal peaces which hold the grid. I had a hard time to decide between the Weber summit charcoal and the big joe. I went with the big joe for the following reason. In my opinion the three height positions for the grids and the divide and conquer system gives you more versatility to play with. Another point was that the summit has the same parts my current cattle is rusting at, which gave me a bad feeling.

[@SmokingDadBBQ]

Congratulations on your new grill

[@deltahotelyyz]

Funny - I’m in the exact same boat. IMHO - a Summit Kamado E6 comparison with a big joe would be a better ep.

[@adeelcyril3339]

I love your channel! It’s one of my favorite’s. Keep pushing for great content like this. Thank you!

[@SmokingDadBBQ]

I appreciate that! Thanks so much Adeel

[@arjan2518]

There is another way of looking at it. You can lower the temperature if the Weber and use radiant heat straight from the coal. The bagel will not come out black and you save some fuel.

[@CrashTestingAudio]

Ironically, I’m thinking about circling back to a Weber kettle to just “round” out the arsenal. But this gave me pause because I’m in New England and was starting to worry about that lack of insulation during the cold months. Thanks for the reminder.

[@SmokingDadBBQ]

cheers

[@tofudrifter]

love love the videos!!!! can you please do a taste test of charcoal kettle weber vs kamado and maybe pellet if you can get your hands on one? thank you thank you!

[@SmokingDadBBQ]

Great suggestion! I will try to borrow those once the world opens up again lol

[@nialldaly2145]

In my opinion the experiment would be a fairer comparison if they both had a diffuser plate or if neither had. Weber’s hot and cold zone cooking has its advantages.

[@jm.519]

really good video. Did a good job presenting the pros and cons, and made a really good case for the Kamado Joe. He also made a good point in how difficult it is to compare these two types of grills since they are so different. I think if you are looking at a true entry point and price, you have to consider that you can get the Original Weber for $109, and the premium for $165 which I believe gives it the advantage. You can also add the accessories over time as you want or need them, which is also nice about the Weber. My biggest question though, why not have both?? If you buy a kettle, and then later upgrade to a ceramic, unless you are super limited on space, why not have the kettle as a backup?

[@SmokingDadBBQ]

well said. it doesn’t have to be all one vs the other

[@CAIDMASTEROFPYRO]

I started with a very low end kettle, think the cheapest noname one at a big hardware store, then I got a gas grill which was very convenient but I missed the charcoal taste, went out and got a nicer kettle, not webber but one that was similarly priced to the cheaper webbers but spec'd closer to the expensive webbers, recently upgrade to a kjoe series 1 and it is so much better than the kettle, fit and finish, the lid being hinged rather than needing to hang it on the side, the lid fitting perfectly, minimal assembly required, much better airflow and easier ash cleanup, plus the big one low and slow is easy, it is very difficult to hold temp on a kettle

[@SmokingDadBBQ]

congrats on your new grill

[@devil88bg62]

For me, overall, they are similar. Obviously, the kamado is better in everything, but the quality of the food will be pretty closer... it is like any other kitchen tools... there is the expensive one that is better and easier to use, but in the end, you need to know how to use it. I think the kettle is a really nice starting point for everybody. Cheap, easy to use, if you want to use just rarely you can (this is true also for the kamado but for the price, it is a little bit wasted)... it is always there... but if you have a passion for the bbq after some years you will buy the kamado.

[@SmokingDadBBQ]

well said.... anything beats propane or not grilling at all

[@MrSupernova111]

I agree with this. I can make a great steak with the kettle but if I have a choice why would I make my life difficult? I think that's the issue here. Of course, I could own one of each and decide which is best for the occasion.

[@rendezvous0000]

Your presentation style is very charismatic! Keep up the great videos. Thank you very much!

[@SmokingDadBBQ]

Thanks, will do! Really appreciate you stopping by and commenting

[@fiftyonef1]

I never use a basket on each side of my weber for indirect cooking. On side is plenty of heat.

[@mattkrull360]

Awesome video James and certainly interesting comparison.

[@SmokingDadBBQ]

Thanks Matt 👍

[@odom2142]

I do overnight cooks like brisket and pork butt with my Kettle all the time. I also don’t check the temperature for 11 hours and it’ll still be at least 200 degrees after that time. The only thing you mentioned that the Kettle can’t do is 900-degree pizza, but I don’t cook pizza anyway.

[@SmokingDadBBQ]

i went 56 hours without adding fuel recently... i like kettles, anything is better than propane but you're not going to convince me we are in the same ballpark on efficiency. I get it is an apples and oranges comparison to begin with, working on a summit review for a more apples to apples grill comparison

[@RGShaklee101]

Hey James thanks again for doing this comparison. I have two kettles currently but after consuming more of your videos in the last couple days The Kamado Joe is looking even more sexy every video I watch. I’ve basically rolled out a pellet smoker at this point due to your videos, thank you! But as a dad of two younger humans life is not giving up a lot of time. I especially liked the fuel consumption videos but have been eyeing dedicated smokers. I’d be curious to see how offset smoker or a smoky mountain smoker would compare to the Kamado Joe. I do like to cook for the family and friends so my initial thought is go big or go home. But I’d be interested to see your thoughts and those three head-to-head competition. With the sidenote that I do know offset smoker is take time to manage. Thank you so much for what you do and I look forward to seeing that had heads if you’re up for it

[@SmokingDadBBQ]

i will be adding an offset to play with next year to find out, can't wait to see

[@robservice3322]

Thanks James for the excellent comparison of the Weber Kettle vs Kamado Joe. I've been debating about which one to add to my backyard bbq arsenal. The Kamado Joe I think is going to be a great choice for what I want do. Thanks again!

[@SmokingDadBBQ]

thanks Rob. To complicate things more there is a Kettle Kamado joe now that didn't exist when i did this. its pricey compared to the weber but it has a few nice touches like the ceramic fire box (so you can do 700 vs. 500 without damaging the grill), retain some heat for longer low slow cooks, and the sloroller .... needs felt to fix some smoke leaks and the ash drawer warps a little too easy for my liking but a good option on the all and all... especially when comparing the taste / quality which is what saves it for me

[@johna9530]

I have the cheapest of the cheapest 22“ Weber kettle. Can do anything. Even slow cooking with the right setup. Would highly recommend. I also drilled a small hole to add a thermometer. If I were to upgrade, I might get the better version with the enclosed ash catcher. Would never buy a porcelain grill, so over priced.

[@SmokingDadBBQ]

thanks for watching. anything beats propane

[@BrianMiller1973]

Everyone should have both!

[@SmokingDadBBQ]

for sure. they both do different things well

[@MDRecordingStudioAthina]

Loved the power of habit at 21:54 trying to close the kettle like the kamado !

[@SmokingDadBBQ]

haha the range of movement from the holder is similar but i guess you could go more vertical than the angled close i have in muscle memory

[@aavv17]

Great video thanks! I am an entry level griller with a kettle looking to upgrade but I don’t think I’m ready yet. Got two questions here: 1) where to find some good recipes that are easy for kettle to get me going? 2) like your neighbor, if I was to upgrade to a ceramic grill, when would be a good time (like after you can cook this successfully, you’re ready for ceramic)? Thanks again!

[@SmokingDadBBQ]

Thanks so much. I don't think there is a set time or anything... my neighbour actually thinks the Joe is easier to run than his kettle was for stabilizing temps so I wouldn't view it as a graduated license type thing which is you need to master grill X or Y before attempting. It really comes down to what you want to do, if you want to tailgate every weekend and toss the grill in the car and go a Kettle has lots of advantages in that scenario as its lighter, and durable. If you want to get into ribs, brisket, pizza etc. and want to buy the SUV of BBQ's that can do most everything than I would consider jumping in the deep end and going for the ceramic grill right away. It's not as daunting as it feels right now at this moment.

[@czwest7845]

Would be real nice if you can do a comparison between a Weber Summit Charcoal Grill vs Kamado Big Joe 3 ?

[@SmokingDadBBQ]

hoping to be able to do that this summer

[@czwest7845]

Looking forward too that !

[@tonyurquhart7130]

Hi James. I got a Joe Jr a couple of months ago after watching your vids. Also, just hot a Kick Ash Basket. I need a table for my Jr (getting too old to bend so low) and have been eyeing yours. Please tell me where you got it or, if a build, do you have plans? Would be a good video for you to make. Thanks.

[@SmokingDadBBQ]

thanks Tony. I just slapped together a box that is hollow so the Joe jr can slide inside for storage ... not that I end up using that feature so in the future I would make it lower as this is just a few too many inches tall for a comfortable grilling position

[@TheSillyKitchenwithSylvia]

I like the red one better, it's pretty! LOL But in all seriousness this is a great comparison video for people to watch who are considering a purchase. Love the bagel test!

[@SmokingDadBBQ]

Thanks so much!! Bread is kinda my go to test it seems lol

[@dansong.tolman2793]

First I like your videos, well made and direct. I agree on most of your reasoning and yes, the ceramic kamado is a great option. But I don't think the price compares. If you buy the expensive SNS and other stuff, OK. I have both and use the one I feel is good for my cook. Also the rotisserie option for the kettle is really great. How about a comparing the Charcoal Summit to your Kamados.

[@SmokingDadBBQ]

Danson G. Tolman thanks for watching and commenting. Hands down space for the money the Weber is the less expensive so it’s only if you add some bells and whistles does it get close. I am hoping to borrow a friends summit to make this happen once the world opens again. That is more of a fair fight

[@spudster4002]

Thank you for this video. Only just found your channel. So much info 👍🏽

[@SmokingDadBBQ]

Spudster thanks so much and welcome to the club 😂

[@ezsweety4043]

I never had a kamado Joe before.. but they sure look nice n high tech charcoal burner. Good comparison between the two.👍

[@SmokingDadBBQ]

Thanks 👍. Appreciate the support

[@kevvids]

May be some bias there mate, I do like the channel though. Keep it up!

[@SmokingDadBBQ]

Thanks Kev. Yes I am 100% biased as its been over 10 years since I bought a Kettle so I do in my heart of hearts believe in the Kamado style grill, BUT like I said anything that gets people away from propane and cooking with charcoal is a win in my books so I tried my best to represent the strengths of each. Appreciate you checking it out and please do call me out if you think anything I am saying isn't fair or accurate

[@kevvids]

@@SmokingDadBBQ I've only had my KJ Classic 2 for a month and the kettle is already in the shed and my 22" WSM might following it on the weekend lol. It is an incredibly versatile cooker isn't is?

[@timmitchell7182]

Why not compare to the weber charvoal summit?

[@mdlund0]

@@SmokingDadBBQ So I have a KJ Classic II and a Weber Genesis 300 series (propane) and I've gotta say: they're different tools for different jobs. If I get home in the summer and it's late and I need to get cookin' but don't want to do it inside, man, I'm throwing those burgers/pork chops/chicken thighs/etc on the propane grill. It gets hot quick, it cooks evenly and consistently, and it doesn't require the attention that a charcoal/wood fire does. Same would go if we were entertaining and needed to cook burgers and dogs for a crowd: nothing cranks 'em out like a propane grill. If I have time to spend and flavor is the priority, then KJCII all the way. Which one is "better" depends on my precise needs in the moment.

[@HeCute_]

One thing worth considering how cheap Weber kettles are used. You find plenty of them used for sale When it comes to price, a grand or so for a cooker than can last years, if not a lifetime. Able to feed family and friends; it’s worth the price. It’ll pay itself off in time What do you do think of Weber Smokey mountains? Could be an interesting video! Edit: thoughts on Weber summit? I use my Weber kettle and wsm14 very often. Would love to own a kamado. I just love bbq toys.

[@SmokingDadBBQ]

I am hoping to do a summit compare this spring

[@malagamalaga6623]

Que diferencia hay en kamado joe jr y kamado joe kettle joe,veo que tienen el mismo precio,sabria decirme en que se diferencian,gracias

[@AdamReidBSc]

Hey James, long time no speak lol. So, I now have my KJ Classic III setup - thanks for the unboxing and setup video! 😀 - however, I’ve yet to use my new baby as I’m not sure about firing it up in very cold conditions. I say very cold, but UK cold where I am is about 0c to 4c during the day at the moment. There’s nothing in the manual telling me not to, but I defer to your expert knowledge if you may be so kind to guide me? 😀 loving the videos and loving the journey with my new KJ. Thanks Muchly! Adam.

[@SmokingDadBBQ]

congratulations and thanks. hope this helps answer that - kzbin.info/www/bejne/rnPOq6qZh9mXmLs

[@HarpreetSingh-vt6qo]

Though there was a definite biased the video was very informative. Obviously the kettle would cook it faster, As a cook I would've focused on getting the best possible results on both grills and then comparing the 2.

[@SmokingDadBBQ]

so long as people are trying cooking on something other than gas the world is a better place.... can't beat the price per sq inch space value of the kettle but its also a bizarre pairing people ask about regularly my neighbour included thus the video

[@Bosmanneggie]

I think this comparison also could be used for ketel vs any keramic ?

[@SmokingDadBBQ]

thats fair, thats the main difference

[@donnyk123]

Have you considered a comparison between kamado Joe and Primo oval? The one thing that bothers me a bit is that the kamado Joe is made in China is there a way you could compare the quality of the two?

[@SmokingDadBBQ]

Thanks Donny. I don’t have one near me and haven’t cooked on one to be able to have a qualified comment but if anyone reading this in my area has one they can wheel over we could do a video. I’ve read the accessory ecosystem is limited for the unique shape but that might be an outdated perspective

[@randallsnider5025]

Good video but why not get the best if both worlds and get Weber summit charcoal grill

[@SmokingDadBBQ]

randall snider when the world opens again I hope to borrow my friends and do a video ... that would be interesting 🤔

[@Stalkermatrixx]

hello come from austria, your videos are great. I have a summit charcoal and a timberline 1300. Now I don't know if I should exchange the timberline for a Kamado big joe 3? maybe you can give me a tip. greetings from Austria sirowy's bbq thank you very much

[@SmokingDadBBQ]

Thanks for watching. Two very different beasts, room for both?

[@Stalkermatrixx]

Smoking Dad BBQ hello thanks for your reply I am very happy. I would have space for three barbecues I currently have a summit 670, summit charcoal and a timberline 1300. my idea is to sell the timberline and buy a big joe 3. not sure if that's good? thank you for your help. greetings from Austria sirowy's bbq

[@user-bc7cb8uu7e]

It would have been interesting to see how a slow and sear handled this test. They seem like they might help a lot with this issue

[@ThePdxster]

Especially since he had added in the price of the SnS into the cost of the Weber.

[@bucketlist2016]

You can indirect cook on a kettle but you can’t “convection” cook so anytime I’m smoking im automatically limited to half the grill. beer can chicken doesn’t stand up since their isn’t enough height in the dome and tempature stabilizing is better on a Kamado since I live somewhere very windy and that air does get in through the lid

[@SmokingDadBBQ]

ryanpatrick16 💯 agree. It’s way better than propane ... but if you’re going for a charcoal grill I thought this would help people decide between the two

[@bassman7496]

What about a pk 360 vs Komodo comparison video?

[@ronalddenkens4629]

Did you already work with the new Weber Summit charcoal? I'm looking for a good comparison between KJ classic and Weber Summit E6 PS love your channel

[@SmokingDadBBQ]

Not yet! I’ve used the old one but haven’t been able to track down this years model

[@toddg3268]

First of all, I love your channel. Please keep up the good work! We’re just beginning a redesign of our outdoor living/kitchen area and I have already reserved space for a Kamado Joe III. This video caught my eye because I’m a huge fan of the Weber Kettle. While my Joe will be my first ceramic cooker, I’ve cooked on all other kinds of grills/smokers: offset stick burner, Pit Barrel Cooker, gas, Weber Kettle, etc. - just about everything but a pellet smoker (and the aforementioned ceramic.) I thought it was interesting that you used “versatility” as one of the reasons you liked the Joe, which is exactly why I’ve enjoyed the Kettle so much. Granted, I’ve purchased a few add-ones, including the Slow n Sear and the OnlyFire pizza oven kit, but I’ve found that I can do just about anything with the Kettle, including slow, 10+ hour cooks with the Slow n Sear. I’m pretty sure my total investment was under $500 USD and the real comparison is with the Joe II or III, not the Joe Jr. Price-wise, they’re not even close. Granted, 50+ hours is not in the cards for the Kettle, but it’s not in the cards for me either. Since you included the Slow n Sear in the Kettle price when comparing, the indirect comparison probably would have been closer to the Joe Jr. results if you had been able to use one, especially if lighting the charcoal at 1 end of the chamber. As much as I love my kettle, I know that I’ll love the Joe III even more! I’m really looking forward to learning how to dial in a temp and keep it there for long periods, as well as the moisture retention that so many people rave about. Thanks again for the great work!

[@SmokingDadBBQ]

thanks and congrats. this might be of help kzbin.info/www/bejne/rmTRp56totyofNk

[@PickledAndFermented]

You priced the weber with a slow and searing but didn't use it. I think even charcoal on one side would give better results... the ceramic is definitely very efficient though.

[@SmokingDadBBQ]

it is a an apples and oranges head to head I give it that

[@davidshawn1609]

Can’t decide between the classic and big Joe. I have a family of 5 but a couple of time a year I grill for 10-12 people. Would love to be able to cook side dishes and meat on the same grill. Suggestions?

[@SmokingDadBBQ]

david shawn with the classic 3 which has a three tier divide and conquer system I can manage so different zones and side dishes. The big joe however makes it a breeze

[@jon4589]

Read Craigslist and pick up four Weber kettles for under $200 US. That will get you through everything cooked at Thanksgiving.

[@sircrazydaizy]

Really enjoy all your videos and I'm learning alot from them! I'm just wondering why you didn't use the diffuser plate on the Weber? It come with my Weber that I recently bought

[@SmokingDadBBQ]

Thanks so much Damien. This one (in Canada) didn’t come with it, I understand in some countries it does. It would have helped a bunch

[@jtlbb2]

You made it sound like the Weber kettle isn’t versatile. It’s one of the most versatile grills out there. It’s not just the grill you get simply because you can’t afford something else.

[@SmokingDadBBQ]

? i said its the best for moving around and the most durable in the process aka versatile.

[@CRAWFORD147]

Would love to see a Summit Charcoal vs Kamado grill video. Ive cooked on both and would love to see your opinion on them

[@SmokingDadBBQ]

I can't wait for this one

[@CRAWFORD147]

@@SmokingDadBBQ Thank you!. I cooked on the Kamado Classic II for a year and then tried the Summit Charcoal which i have now bought, for me its the best all around grill. Quicker at getting to temp and also easier to control and also every bit as fuel efficient and easier moved around. Both fab grills but for me the Weber Summit Charcoal edges it

[@SmokingDadBBQ]

shaw williamson I agree the older grills it’s a crazy close fight. The big Joe 3 with the SloRoller though has impressed me. Can’t wait to get them side by side.

[@luvyesmusici4886]

Yes, the. Webber Summit charcoal that is double steel insulated would be a more equal comparison, with it being deeper, a diffuser/ indirect heat and smoking capabilitites. It is awesome, and being easier to move from my garage to patio that a heavier porcelain egg style kamado, it fits my life style perfectly. Been great spsnding more time outside during the pandemic.

[@georgehupfer9509]

Do you have a video comparing the various meat probes on the market...I have seen you use a couple of different brands?

[@SmokingDadBBQ]

good idea, just need a meat stick and i can do a head to head. I just got the meater block and I am liking it more than anything else I have

[@Deprecated446]

Thanks for the time stamps!

[@SmokingDadBBQ]

You bet!

[@marktcoleman]

I wonder how the Weber would have performed if you had installed a heat deflector under the grills. Might have been a more apples to apples comparison. Btw, I own both and typically go hot and fast on my Kamado Joe Jr and low and slow on my Weber Performer

[@SmokingDadBBQ]

Mark Coleman 💯 would have. In Canada the master touch doesn’t come with the heat deflector stock

[@rich8381]

You would think based on the insulation value with the Joe, you'd use that for low and slow. Why do you do it that way considering the Joe can sustain heat for longer?

[@SmokingDadBBQ]

Rich83 good question. Curious for this to hear Marks perspective

[@rich8381]

@@SmokingDadBBQ right.. hey where abouts you at in Canada? I'm in Kitchener-Waterloo

[@SmokingDadBBQ]

Rich83 awesome. I am in Burlington

[@stuhill60]

Could we get a comparison between the Kamado Joe and the Weber Summit Charcoal one day? I’m stuck between these two on which one to get. I feel the summit is closer in cost and function to the Joe than the kettle.

[@SmokingDadBBQ]

Absolutely, those two are by far more comparable for the price and functionality... I have a friend with one that I am hoping to borrow for that video once social distancing is over so we can make it happen

[@stuhill60]

@@SmokingDadBBQ thank you!

[@Stalkermatrixx]

hello come from austria, your videos are great. I have a summit charcoal and a timberline 1300. Now I don't know if I should exchange the timberline for a Kamado big joe 3? maybe you can give me a tip. greetings from Austria sirowy's bbq thank you very much

[@joeykong94]

I'm thinking of getting one of these .... I got a pellet smoker and a real cheap Webber grill ..... I wanna get another charcoal grill that I can smoke on and grill steaks burgers ect .... would you think a big green egg is comparable to the kamado joe ?

[@SmokingDadBBQ]

i had 4 eggs before i bought my first KJ a few years back and slowly ended up switching over. 1) they are the top two brands so there is no wrong answer (2) I prefer KJ as they have changed the product in a way that actually improves the cooking performance.... one of my first vides was a comparison between the two if you're interested

[@Irish_Mike_NYC]

I like the bench to sit the kamado joe in but then how do you cover it?

[@SmokingDadBBQ]

I just got a Joe jr cover and leave it on top now

[@jeaniepatterson2384]

Love my Weber Master Touch

[@SmokingDadBBQ]

it’s a great grill

[@smokinjaws3310]

Love this comparison. I do feel you should have compared to the larger Komado. You covered the difference well, but the size difference is much more critical. Especially when looking at cost. You could have also used the less expensive Weber which would have shown a much greater price difference. I use Weber’s (I have multiple), and ceramics (I have multiple). Both are great, and capable of producing great food. Thanks for the channel. I enjoy the content!

[@SmokingDadBBQ]

I totally agree but with Covid I haven't been able to get my friends Weber Summit. Now that things are clearing up I think a more head to head is in order.

[@smokinjaws3310]

The great thing about Weber’s is they all perform the same. In the US you can buy the base model for $99, and the premium for $165. A beginner could start there if budget was the concern. Adding the slow and sear makes it more versatile. Keep up the great work!

[@1882dmac]

Love the channel, I love my Kettle with the Slow n Sear, I love my Joe Jr, I love my Green Mountain..... 1st world problems 🤷🏾‍♂️🤷🏾‍♂️🤷🏾‍♂️🤷🏾‍♂️Weber Summitt vs Kamado would also be a great battle.

[@SmokingDadBBQ]

Right on! Trying to land one from my friend to make that video happen

[@ericg649]

Commenting as I watch but the Weber kettle you are using is 22” in diameter. The KJ junior that you are comparing it to says it’s 13.5”. 🤷‍♂️🤷‍♂️🤷‍♂️

[@beerfan9789]

You include the Slow n Sear in your price comparison, but then cooked in the kettle without one? And you then concluded the kettle was too direct? 🤔 Surely a komado is much more direct vs a kettle with a Slow n Sear? I'm considering moving to ceramic for the reduced fuel use, but I'm concerned about the heat being too direct.

[@SmokingDadBBQ]

this is apples and oranges, but if you add those things the price is more similar than most people believe. There is NO beating the price per capacity of the kettle. The Joe wins with low and slow cooks and winter performance, the kettle wins price and portability

[@chrisdesignco]

You should be using the Webber summit in this comparison. That is in my eyes, Apple to Apple comparison. Thanks for your videos!

[@SmokingDadBBQ]

Great suggestion! I have one lined up as soon as COVID is gone

[@michaelh5722]

Just the video I was after. I want something to step up my game before committing to a Big Joe 3. Was thinking a Weber or Napoleon Kettle of some sort, but an Akorn Kamado is a similar price to them here in NZ. Are budget Kamado’s even any good?

[@SmokingDadBBQ]

check out my latest Akorn videos!

[@michaelh5722]

@@SmokingDadBBQ I’m enjoying the series but just bought a Classic Joe on sale.

[@SmokingDadBBQ]

@@michaelh5722 nice, enjoy!

[@chaserglowka1]

I have a big joe ll. What are some tips on how to get the temperature up to 700 and 800 degrees. I’m not sure if I’m not using enough coal or if maybe something is wrong with the grill because I did get it second hand. If you have any tips that would be great.

[@SmokingDadBBQ]

chaserglowka1 check out my top 5 fixes. I suspect you may have misaligned vent draft or an air flow restriction maybe from some ash. Then I would try larger chunks of charcoal vs the small granular kind

[@lacelotte7385]

I swear KZbin must read my mind. I opened the app to search for a KJ vs Weber kettle video and bam this was top of suggested list 🙈

[@SmokingDadBBQ]

hahah creeps me out when that happens

[@lacelotte7385]

Thanks for the video btw. I do all of my smoked food in a Masterbuilt electric smoker and a cheap and cheerful bbq. Having paid more for the MES and seeing the results I'm wanting top upgrade to a decent grill. Like your neighbour though I'm struggling to justify the KJ cost (mainly because I'm a tight fisted Englishman) but I've since watched your KJ Jnr video where you used it as your main grill. Perhaps alongside my MES it would be a good introduction to Kamados and if I do buy a classic later down the line I can keep the jnr for portability. Right?

[@luisfont6140]

please make a video comparing the Weber Summit Charcoal Grill and the Kamado Joe!

[@SmokingDadBBQ]

I have one lined up to make this happen

[@bassislife-trh]

I've had a KJ II for a little more than a year now and have been thinking of adding on, hoping for something that be simpler to use and get up to temp quicker on work days. I have a natural gas line outside, but would prefer to stick with charcoal. I was actually comparing these two grills in my head this morning when a simple search turned up your video (love your channel btw). You certainly have helped with my considerations.

[@SmokingDadBBQ]

thanks so much. I’d look at the PK original as an option too

[@justinwong3148]

Great channel. Got me on the verge of buying a Kamado joe. Do you know of any differences in cooking between the classic 3 and the big joe 3?

[@SmokingDadBBQ]

Justin Wong thanks Justin. I have a massive man crush on the big joe. It’s not logical, there are no facts to really support it... but I want it bad lol 😂. From using them they work the same just bigger

[@Just.an.expat.abroad]

Actually it make sense. Most people have a Weber instead of a Kamado Joe, let alone both. A Weber is a fraction of the cost of a KJ. So the Weber is used as a multi purpose grill/oven.

[@SmokingDadBBQ]

100%

[@johnvella697]

Can't afford a Kamdo Joe Classic, which is what I want.. Is there another cheaper Komado style grill on the market ? Doesn't have to be ceramic.

[@SmokingDadBBQ]

check out the kettle joe, recent review of it vs. the jr here - kzbin.info/www/bejne/eHychYqqhN6ol7c

[@The_Monkey_King]

Like, e.g. the Acorn kamado

[@tranxxaction]

When your grill comes to your desired temp, are you suppose to "brake" and close the top all the way and close the bottom part all the way too?

[@SmokingDadBBQ]

good question. i slow down but never hard brake closing the vents completely

[@mdlund0]

You'll kill the fire if you shut everything down completely. The goal is to CONTROL the flow of air in (and out, though what goes in must come out) so you have just the right amount of coal combusting to generate the heat necessary to maintain the desired temperature of the grill. Ceramic grills have large thermal mass and are well insulated, so it doesn't take a lot of combustion to generate the heat necessary to maintain a given temperature, but there are enough heat losses that you still need to maintain some combustion (heat generation) to keep the grill at temperature.

[@PicklesBBQandCooking]

Pretty cool comparison James, every grill has its strengths and weaknesses. I’ve cooked on a BGE years ago and it was a lot of fun. I like having a variety of different cookers and if I got a free kamado I wouldn’t turn it down. :) Take care brother and keep on grillin!

[@SmokingDadBBQ]

Pickles BBQ thanks so much brother. Take care

[@RynoKenny]

Is your left Kamado unlatched for a reason? Should I be storing mine unlatched? Thanks for any help!

[@SmokingDadBBQ]

Great question. yes you are (after its completely shut down) leave it unlatched to help preserve gasket life

[@kappatvating]

Smoking Dad BBQ great question and response. Glad I read all the comments.

[@mesaman86]

Curious of the outcome of the indirect toasting if only one side of the Weber was lit, rather than both sides.

[@SmokingDadBBQ]

I am sure that would have helped crest more indirect space. I couldn’t reach the temp without both sides lit

[@JBishop25]

Another great video as I begin the journey of transitioning from a kettle to kamado. A couple of points for the kettle- 1- you mentioned that it’s not possible to get to 800-900 degrees, but with a slow n sear that you mentioned, it is- although only over the direct zone. The one thing that makes me nervous about a kamado- if you overshoot your temp, it’s much harder to to get the temp down because of its awesome heat retention.

[@SmokingDadBBQ]

it does take some time but if you follow these steps to build your fire it won’t be an issue - kzbin.info/www/bejne/rmTRp56totyofNk

[@SmokyPasturesBBQ]

Mate you lost me when I saw you wearing Crocs 🤣 ... in all seriousness, nice video. I'm lucky enough to have a few Joes and lots of Kettles, it's always good to have exactly the grill you want but it's not always that easy for everyone!

[@SmokingDadBBQ]

haha I do love my crocs almost as much as my Bbq’s lol. They are both great grills that serve different purposes and if you can have one of each even better. thanks for checking it out

[@ThePdxster]

@@SmokingDadBBQ Crocs are great for going in and out of the house to check on the bbq!!

[@RobBeaglesRock]

Thanks for this great channel James. I’m hooked on it and bought myself a Big Joe3 about 2 months ago. Just watched one of the videos the other night and noted that your BJ3 closes with 1 hand. Mine needs 2. One to open the latch or it’s hits the clasp that comes down from the dome. I’m afraid the ceramic may crack if someone else tries to close it. KJ says that there may be an overbite that requires a disengagement tool to fix. Have you had the same experience? If so how did you fix it? Can you do an instructional video? A little disappointing it wasn’t perfect on arrival. Bought it new. Hoping you can show how to fix it Thanks

[@SmokingDadBBQ]

I do give mine more of a shove. if I do any adjustments this spring I will make a video to show the process

[@RobBeaglesRock]

Thank you for the quick reply James. I’ve learned so much in your channel. I appreciate your response. Keep the great videos coming