The word “kamado” is a Japanese word that means stove, but it isn’t just any other stove.
It’s a type of grill that gives you a classic approach on the traditional Japanese way of grilling, smoking and searing different types of food. It is thanks to the grill’s materials, features and other technologies that makes it one of the best grills to give you optimal cooking temperatures.
The kamado grill’s oval egg shape is what helps make the ideal airflow, which allows you to control the heat of the grill in an easier way. It’s unique shape also helps distinguise it from other grills.
One of the best things about owning a kamado grill is the taste. Investing a little bit of time and money into buying a kamado grill while learning how to properly use it can really make the food you cook taste great.
That’s why we’re here to show you the top 3 best kamado grill under 1000 that you can buy this 2022.
Best Kamado Grill Under 1000
1. TUSY Charcoal Grill Advanced Portable Ceramic Griller Black – Best Value
This charcoal grill has a larger cooking area than other similar kamado grills because of its 12-inch diameter cooking grid that provides you with enough space for all your cooking needs especially when you’re grilling at home or while camping.
The grill is light and compact enough that you can bring it anywhere you go whether that be just out on your backyard or a trip to the park.
Because of the kamado grill’s adjustable air vent, you can control the temperature and retain heat within the grill without having to lift the lid. It also helps that the bowl and lid are porcelain-enameled which improves heat retention, thus having a more even grilling session. Ceramic grills are durable and can last longer than most iron grills.
You can hold a steady temperature by using just a few pieces of charcoal or about 1kg. Because of this, you minimize the amount of charcoal you waste, thus saving a lot more on the long run. You can also make use of the adjustable ventilation damper and digital thermometer to further monitor your kamado grill’s heat level.
The only real con about this item is that the grilling surface may actually be smaller than what is advertised by just an inch or two. Also, the asbestos ring may need replacement after continual usage. Other than that, this kamado grill is an overall solid choice that fulfills its duties.
| PROS | CONS |
| + Small and compact design allows for great portability – you can take the grill almost anywhere you go + Solid and durable grill due to being made from ceramic + Adjustable air vents damper and digital thermometer can be used to carefully retain desired temperatures |
– Grilling surface may actually be smaller than what is advertised by just an inch or two. – Asbestos ring might need replacement after repeated use of the grill |
2. Chefood 13″ Ceramic Kamado Portable BBQ Charcoal Grill With Cover – Best for Durability
This kamado grill is the charcoal grill under $300 that has a diameter of about 13 inches (outside) with 0.8-inch thickness of high-quality ceramic. The grill also has about 85 square inches of cooking surface with FDA-approved porcelain-enameled cooking grid.
Because of the grill’s build, you can experience even heating throughout your cooking session as well as great heat retention, even during chilly weather or cold climates.
The adjustable air ventilation damper that can be found at the bottom of the grill as well as the top venting temperature control system allows you to cook with the desired heat you want. Lastly, the grill also comes with a free cover that can protect it during transport or while not in use.
However, the advertised 13 inches diameter may be wrong, thus having a grilling surface that is small as well.
If you can look past this detail and appreciate the strengths of this kamado grill, then we think that the Chefood Ceramic Kamado Portable BBQ Charcoal Grill is a great choice.
| PROS | CONS |
| + Excellent heat retention allows you to cook during cold weather + Solid and durable grill due to being made from pure ceramic and porcelain + Adjustable air ventilation damper and top venting temperature control system can be used to carefully retain desired heat levels |
– Grilling surface may actually be smaller than what is advertised by just an inch or two. |
3. Viemoi Kamado Grill Mini Kamado Charcoal Grill – New Season Arrival
The Viemoi Kamaado Grill Mini Kamado Charcoal Grill Barbecue Cooking System with Stainless Steel Grid is Viemoi’s new season arrival kamado grill.
It boasts a prime quality oxford water-proof cover and stainless-steel grid grip in order to have easier handling and usage.
This kamado grill also has excellent heating insulation and temperature performance which is great for grilling almost anywhere at any time – even during the winter season. The adjustable air ventilation damper that can be found at the bottom of this grill as well as the top venting temperature control system allows you to cook with the desired heat you want, similar to the previous grill on this list.
Despite that, there may be quality issues with the handles, especially when attempting to lift the kamado grill. They may potentially break after continued use due to the weight and stress placed on them. This grill, however, is definitely a solid choice if you don’t see yourself constantly moving this piece around.
| PROS | CONS |
| + Excellent heat retention allows you to cook during cold weather + Solid and durable grill due to being made from ceramic and porcelain + Adjustable air ventilation damper and top venting temperature control system can be used to carefully retain desired heat levels |
– Has troubles reaching the desired temperature, especially in chilly weather or cold climates – Doesn’t maintain the desired temperature sometimes. |
See also:
- Top 7 Best Charcoal Grills Under 100
- 10 Best Charcoal Grills Under 200
- 4 Best Charcoal Grills Under 500
Kamado Grill Buyer’s Guide
Kamado grills are meant to last for a long time. Owning one can definitely improve the way you enjoy food; others can go as far as to say that these grills are a must-have in every home.
These grills will give you the opportunity to cook your food in a unique way that is both rewarding and satisfyingly delicious. When purchasing your kamado grill, it’s important that you take note of the following things before coming to your final decision.
Portability
Although some kamado grills are small and seem portable, there are some kamado grills that really aren’t manufactured to be brought around wherever you go, this is more so if you have the full ceramic body types.
However, there are options for you to take a more portable model that are smaller and more manageable when it comes to bringing it around with you wherever you go.
Determine whether you need a large, stationary kamado grill or a small but portable one, then take this into consideration when making your first purchase.
Cooking Surface
Different cooking surfaces can provide you with different results depending on the type of food that you wish to grill with. That’s why you should think about what kind of food you will be cooking on your preferred kamado grill.
Although most come with a grill, there are other options for you to choose from as well.
Material
There are three main groups when it comes to the materials used to make kamado grills. Each has its own attributes and contributes in a different way to improve heat retention and distribution.
A very brief rundown on these materials are ceramics (best at retaining heat), stainless-steel (heats up faster than ceramics, while good at retaining heat), and aluminum (heats up fast, cools down fast; easier to clean and lighter).
Temperature Regulation System
Most kamado grills come with a ventilation system that you use to regulate heat within the grill. Increasing airflow through these vents allow the fires to rise more, thus increasing the grill’s overall temperature and vice versa.
Each grill has different ventilation systems, but almost all have a top and bottom vent. Look for the grill that suits your needs with the ventilation that you are comfortable using with.
Conclusion
Looking at this list, we determined that the TUSY Charcoal Grill Advanced Portable Ceramic Griller may be the winner.
This is because of its portability, durability, high-quality build and the fact that it is exceedingly cheaper than the rest of the entries within this list.
Although the winner of this list is the most portable one out of them all, that doesn’t mean it is exactly the one for you. Always consider your needs when making purchases and use the guidelines provided above accordingly so that you get exactly what you’re looking for.