Kamado vs. kettle BBQ — which one is right for me?
Deel
Kamado or kettle — it's the most frequently asked question among BBQ enthusiasts looking to buy their first serious BBQ. Both are great, but they suit different styles and budgets. We'll compare them fairly.
What is a kettle BBQ?
The kettle is the classic round BBQ with a lid, known from the Weber brand. It runs on charcoal or briquettes and is suitable for both direct and indirect grilling. Price range: €80–€400 for quality models.
What is a kamado BBQ?
A kamado is an egg-shaped ceramic BBQ, originally from Japan. The ceramic retains heat extremely well, allowing you to work at very low temperatures (100°C) as well as very high temperatures (350°C+). Price range: €500–€2,500+.
Comparison on the main points
Price
- 🏆 Kettle wins — a good kettle costs €100–€200. A kamado starts at €500.
Temperature control
- 🏆 Kamado wins — the ceramic keeps the temperature stable for hours, ideal for low & slow. A kettle fluctuates more, especially in windy conditions.
Charcoal consumption
- 🏆 Kamado wins — due to insulation, a kamado uses 40–60% less charcoal than a kettle for the same session.
Versatility
- 🤝 Equal — both are suitable for grilling, indirect cooking, and low & slow. A kamado can also serve as a pizza oven at high temperatures.
Portability
- 🏆 Kettle wins — a kettle is light and easy to transport. A kamado weighs 50–150 kg and is stationary.
Maintenance and lifespan
- 🏆 Kamado wins — ceramic does not rust and lasts for decades. A kettle can rust and has a shorter lifespan.
Who is a kettle BBQ for?
- You have a limited budget (€100–€250)
- You mainly grill quickly (steaks, chicken, vegetables)
- You want to be flexible: take it to a party or camping
- You are a beginner and want to gain experience first
Who is a kamado BBQ for?
- You regularly do low & slow (pulled pork, brisket, spareribs)
- You want precise temperature control without constant adjustment
- You have a fixed patio and a higher budget
- You want a BBQ that lasts 20+ years
Do you also want to include pellet BBQs in the comparison? Then read our article about pellet BBQ for beginners. Or check out our full comparison of kettle vs kamado vs pellet.