Expert Rating

98

The inclusion of the Kamado Joe Classic 2 in our best grills category was an easy choice, with the addition of an airlift hinge system, a divide and conquer flexible cooking system, and the option to cook rotisserie style, the Kamado Joe Classic 2 shows its versatility. Even with issues such as both a high price and weight, this ceramic grill is more than worthy of a spot in our best kamado grill list.

Why We Like It – Kamado Joe Classic 2

The Kamado Joe Classic 2 is a heavy-duty charcoal grill with good cooking space. A divide and conquer flexible cooking method gives you consistent results.

Pros
  • Airlift hinge makes lifting the grill dome easy
  • Half-moon cooking system enables cooking several items at once
  • Included motor for rotisserie style cooking
Cons
  • Heavyweight makes it cumbersome to move
  • High price point.

Power/Heating

Easily the best feature of the Kamado Joe Classic 2 is the half-moon system implemented within. Unlike most kamado grills like the Weber Summit Charcoal, there is an option to essentially split the cooking surface in half. Adjusting the height of these half-moons, there is an option to cook several items at once, even at different temperatures. This is a feature that not even the Weber Summit Charcoal can lay claim to.

Related: If you like this, you might be interested in our Kamado Joe Big Joe review.

Size/Versatility

With features such as the Kontrol tower top vent, you won’t have to worry about temperature changes when you open the Kamado Joe Classic 2. Additionally, there is an included motor that you can use to cook rotisserie style. Altogether there are several ways to cook whatever you need however you need.

Durability

With a ceramic interior, the Kamado Joe Classic 2 is protected by both cast iron and stainless steel. This is unlike the Primo Grill, which is primarily made of ceramic. A combination not seen with most grills like the Blaze Kamado. Adding on top of that, with a purchase customers get a five-year warranty. This is unlike the KitchenAid grill, which offers a ten-year limited warranty.

Related: Also check out our Kenyon electric grill review.

Ease of Use

Included features such as the Airlift hinge system make it easier to cook, and able to open the top half of the grill with two fingers easily. With the Kamado Joe Classic 2 weighing more than the Primo Grill, customers want to make sure that such a weighty grill can’t run away. With the cast iron cart locking mechanism, you’ll feel safe knowing that the grill is safe and secure.

Value

There is no denying that $1200 is a lot of money for a grill. However, this is one of those instances where you get what you pay for. Durable construction with the versatility of how you cook will quickly make the Kamado Joe Classic 2 a worthwhile investment.

Kamado Joe Classic 2 Wrap Up

If you’re in the market for a kamado-type grill and aren’t shy of spending a pretty penny, the Kamado Joe Classic 2 should definitely be at the top of your list for consideration. Coming in with features such as the half-moon cooking system, airlift hinge, and included motor for rotisserie style cooking, this is a versatile grill for those who want to do it all. Just keep in mind the high price point and the weight should you be considering purchasing one for yourself.