Few cooking tools bring out the primal joy of grilling like a Kamado-style charcoal grill. These egg-shaped cookers, inspired by ancient Japanese clay ovens, are masters of heat retention, versatility, and flavor. Among the most popular models today are the Char-Griller Akorn and the Kamado Joe Jr — two grills that promise big performance but at very different price points.
After spending several weekends grilling, smoking, and experimenting with both, I discovered that while they share the same Kamado spirit, they deliver very different experiences. The Akorn aims to bring Kamado performance to the masses with an affordable, steel-bodied design. The Joe Jr, on the other hand, represents the premium ceramic category, offering top-tier build quality and heat precision in a compact size.
Let’s break down how they truly compare in real-world use — from design and heat control to portability, performance, and overall value.
Key Difference Between Char-Griller Akorn vs Kamado Joe Jr Kamado Grill
The biggest difference between the Char-Griller Akorn and Kamado Joe Jr lies in material and design philosophy.
The Akorn is made from triple-walled insulated steel, offering Kamado-style performance without the weight (or price tag) of ceramic. It’s large, practical, and perfect for families or backyard grillers who want that smoky flavor without spending over $500.
The Kamado Joe Jr, meanwhile, is built from premium ceramic, which gives it superior heat retention and moisture control. It’s smaller and less versatile in capacity but unbeatable in terms of temperature consistency and build quality. In short — the Akorn is about value and capacity, while the Joe Jr is about precision and craftsmanship.
- KAMADO CHARCOAL GRILL - Kamado style BBQ Grill & Smoker perfect for both high heat grilling and low and slow cooking
- Premium 13.5" Ceramic Grill with Cast Iron Stand
Comparison Table: Char-Griller Akorn vs Kamado Joe Jr Kamado Grill
| Features | Char-Griller Akorn | Kamado Joe Jr |
| Material | Triple-walled insulated steel | Premium ceramic |
| Cooking Area | 447 sq. in. | 150 sq. in. |
| Grate Material | Cast iron | Stainless steel hinged |
| Weight | 97 lbs | 77 lbs |
| Dimensions (W×D×H) | 31″ × 45″ × 47″ | 20″ × 27.5″ (height) |
| Temperature Range | Wide range, adjustable dampers | 225°F – 750°F |
| Heat Retention | Very good (steel insulation) | Excellent (ceramic shell) |
| Cleaning System | Removable Easy Dump Ash Pan | Ash tool included |
| Extras | Warming rack, foldable side shelves, bottom storage | Ceramic heat deflector, grill gripper, stand |
| Portability | Moderate (wheels included) | High (compact with side handles) |
| Fuel Type | Charcoal | Charcoal |
| Price Range | Budget-friendly | Premium |
| Best For | Family cookouts, everyday grilling | Travel, small patios, or ceramic purists |
| Check Latest | Buy on Amazon | Buy on Amazon |
Detailed Comparative Review
Let’s dive into how these two grills stack up in actual use — because specs are one thing, but grilling over live charcoal tells the real story.
Design and Build Quality
The Char-Griller Akorn impresses right away with its industrial look and smart design. The triple-walled steel construction is surprisingly effective at retaining heat, and while it’s not as perfect as ceramic, it gets close — especially considering the price difference. The locking lid, foldable side shelves, and bottom storage rack make it feel like a full-fledged backyard cooking station. The cast iron grates add weight and that perfect sear you expect from a Kamado grill.
- KAMADO CHARCOAL GRILL - Kamado style BBQ Grill & Smoker perfect for both high heat grilling and low and slow cooking
- Premium 13.5" Ceramic Grill with Cast Iron Stand
The Kamado Joe Jr, in contrast, feels like a luxury product the moment you touch it. The thick ceramic walls are beautifully finished and heavy — and that density translates into incredible heat stability. It includes thoughtful details like a cast-iron vent, a built-in thermometer, and a stainless-steel hinged cooking grate that lets you add charcoal mid-cook without lifting everything off.
However, the Joe Jr’s small size (just 150 sq. in. of cooking space) can feel limiting if you’re feeding more than two or three people. Meanwhile, the Akorn’s 447 sq. in. total space can handle up to 27 burgers at once — a clear win for anyone cooking for family gatherings.
Ease of Use
Here’s where the Akorn surprised me. Despite being made of steel, it retains heat efficiently and is very easy to control. The dual dampers on the top and bottom are responsive, and the built-in thermometer is decently accurate. I could dial in my temperature range from low-and-slow at 225°F to searing-hot at 700°F with minimal fuss. The Easy Dump Ash Pan is also a highlight — you simply pull and empty it after grilling.
The Kamado Joe Jr takes temperature precision to another level. The ceramic body stabilizes heat so well that it barely fluctuates once set. The cast-iron top vent allows micro-adjustments, making low-temperature smoking incredibly stable. However, its smaller firebox means you’ll need to refuel sooner if you’re running long cooks.
If you love total control and don’t mind the smaller surface, the Joe Jr delivers a near-perfect grilling experience. But if convenience and flexibility matter more, the Akorn is easier to manage day-to-day.
- KAMADO CHARCOAL GRILL - Kamado style BBQ Grill & Smoker perfect for both high heat grilling and low and slow cooking
Cooking Performance
Both grills are fantastic in their own way.
The Char-Griller Akorn gives you the power of Kamado-style cooking — smoking ribs, grilling burgers, or even baking pizza — at a much lower cost. Its triple-insulated body traps enough heat to maintain consistent cooking temperatures, and the cast iron grates give beautiful grill marks. During my testing, chicken wings and steak came out evenly cooked with just the right smoky flavor.
The Kamado Joe Jr, though smaller, is a precision machine. It’s ideal for those who care about exact temperatures and flavor purity. Its ceramic shell locks in smoke and moisture better than any steel alternative. I used it for a 5-hour pork shoulder, and the temperature barely moved the entire time. The result? Juicy, tender meat with a deep smoke ring that rivals full-size Kamados.
In short:
- The Akorn is great for versatility and capacity.
- The Joe Jr excels in precision and heat stability.
- Premium 13.5" Ceramic Grill with Cast Iron Stand
Portability
If you plan on tailgating, camping, or moving your grill around, the Joe Jr is the clear winner. It’s compact, comes with sturdy side handles, and includes a heavy-duty cast-iron stand. At 77 lbs, it’s not light, but it’s manageable — especially for a ceramic grill.
The Akorn, though heavier at 97 lbs, includes locking caster wheels and foldable side tables, making it more of a stationary backyard unit than a travel grill. It’s easy to move across patios but not something you’ll want to load into a car.
- KAMADO CHARCOAL GRILL - Kamado style BBQ Grill & Smoker perfect for both high heat grilling and low and slow cooking
Maintenance and Cleaning
Both grills are relatively easy to clean, but the Akorn takes the edge. The Easy Dump Ash Pan is a blessing — no tools, no mess.
The Joe Jr uses a traditional ash tool for scraping, which works fine but requires more effort. Also, ceramic grills demand more care overall; they’re sturdy but not invincible, so you need to avoid sudden temperature shocks or drops. If you’re after minimal maintenance, the Akorn is friendlier.
- Premium 13.5" Ceramic Grill with Cast Iron Stand
Durability and Value
This is where philosophies diverge.
The Kamado Joe Jr is built to last a lifetime. The ceramic shell won’t rust, the metal parts are premium, and the fit-and-finish are top-notch. But this quality comes with a higher price and more fragility in transport.
The Akorn, meanwhile, delivers incredible durability for the cost. Its steel body can rust if not covered, but with basic care (and a grill cover), it’ll last for years. The value it provides — given the cooking area, features, and performance — is unbeatable in its price range.
Char-Griller Akorn Kamado Charcoal Grill and Smoker
- KAMADO CHARCOAL GRILL - Kamado style BBQ Grill & Smoker perfect for both high heat grilling and low and slow cooking
Pros:
- Excellent value for the money
- Large cooking surface (447 sq. in.)
- Triple-walled steel insulation retains heat well
- Foldable side shelves and bottom storage
- Easy Dump Ash Pan for quick cleanup
Cons:
- Steel can rust if left uncovered
- Heavier and bulkier than ceramic compacts
- Slightly less heat stability than ceramic
Kamado Joe Jr Portable Ceramic Charcoal Grill
- Premium 13.5" Ceramic Grill with Cast Iron Stand
Pros:
- Premium ceramic construction for exceptional heat retention
- Compact and portable
- Excellent temperature control
- Stainless steel hinged grate for easy charcoal refills
- Includes stand, deflector, and tools
Cons:
- Small cooking area (150 sq. in.)
- More expensive
- Ceramic is heavy and fragile if mishandled
Conclusion: Which Grill Should You Buy?
After cooking extensively on both, here’s the honest truth:
If you’re a budget-conscious griller who wants authentic Kamado performance without spending big, the Char-Griller Akorn is a fantastic choice. It’s versatile, spacious, and user-friendly. You get serious cooking power, practical design, and impressive results — all for a fraction of what ceramic models cost.
However, if you’re a Kamado purist or someone who prioritizes precision and longevity over size, the Kamado Joe Jr is unbeatable. It’s a true premium grill in a portable body — perfect for small patios, couples, or road trips where flavor perfection matters more than space.
My Recommendation:
- Pick the Char-Griller Akorn for large meals, versatility, and unbeatable value.
- Choose the Kamado Joe Jr if you want the ultimate ceramic experience in a compact package.
Both grills embody what makes Kamado cooking so addictive — rich smoky flavor, steady heat, and a connection to old-school grilling done right.
