Pros
- Exceptional Heat Retention and Control: The thick ceramic body provides excellent heat retention, making it easy to maintain precise temperatures for both high-heat grilling and low-and-slow smoking.
- Versatile Cooking System: The Divide & Conquer system allows for multi-level cooking at different temperatures, making it possible to sear, roast, and slow cook all at once.
- Air Lift Hinge for Easy Handling: The spring-loaded hinge makes lifting the heavy ceramic lid almost effortless, enhancing safety and convenience during grilling.
- Durable Build Quality: With a robust ceramic body and quality metal components, the Kamado Joe Classic II is built to last and withstand harsh outdoor conditions.
- Fuel Efficiency: The efficient vent system and ceramic insulation reduce charcoal consumption, making the grill economical to use over time.
Cons
- Price Point: The Kamado Joe Classic II is more expensive than many standard grills, which may be a barrier for some buyers.
- Learning Curve: For those unfamiliar with ceramic or Kamado-style grills, mastering temperature control and air vent management can take some time.
Upon receiving the Kamado Joe Classic II, I was immediately impressed by the quality of its packaging and the sturdiness of its build. Weighing in at around 250 pounds, this grill isn’t something you’ll want to move frequently. However, once set up, it’s clear this grill is engineered for longevity. The thick ceramic body exudes durability, and the vibrant red color adds a stylish flair to any outdoor space. The sleek design merges traditional Kamado aesthetics with modern features, creating a functional yet visually appealing piece.
Heat Retention and Temperature Control
The Kamado Joe Classic II truly excels in heat retention, easily outperforming many traditional grills. Its thick ceramic walls efficiently trap heat, allowing for consistent low-temperature cooking or high-heat searing. The innovative venting system, featuring the "Kontrol Tower" top vent alongside a bottom air vent, offers precise control, making it straightforward to maintain stable cooking temperatures. Whether you're slow-smoking at 225°F or cranking it up to 600°F for a quick sear, temperature control is a breeze with this grill.
Divide & Conquer Cooking System
One of the standout features of the Kamado Joe Classic II is its innovative Divide & Conquer cooking system. This system includes half-moon grates that can be positioned at varying heights, allowing for simultaneous cooking at different temperatures. This feature proved invaluable during meal preparations for larger groups, enabling me to sear meats at high temperatures while slow-cooking vegetables on another level. The flexibility this system offers is a game changer for any outdoor cooking enthusiast.

Air Lift Hinge
The Air Lift Hinge is another remarkable feature of the Kamado Joe Classic II. Lifting the heavy ceramic lid on traditional kamado-style grills can be cumbersome, but the spring-loaded hinge on this model makes the task nearly effortless. This not only enhances usability but also improves safety, especially during lengthy cooking sessions at high heat. The design allows for smooth and controlled lid operation, which adds to the overall convenience of using this grill.
Cleaning and Maintenance
Maintaining the Kamado Joe Classic II is relatively easy. Its ceramic surface does not hold onto grease or grime as much as metal grills do, allowing any residue to be typically burned off during high-heat cooks. The Slide-Out Ash Drawer is another convenient feature, making ash removal simple and quick, thereby reducing the time and effort usually required for cleaning.

Smoking Capabilities
One of the primary reasons I chose the Kamado Joe Classic II was for its exceptional smoking capabilities. The grill excels in low-and-slow cooking, maintaining steady low temperatures ideal for smoking large cuts of meat. The thick ceramic walls help retain heat, while the use of natural lump charcoal and heat deflectors creates a perfect environment for smoking.
Durability and Longevity
Built to last, the Kamado Joe Classic II features a weather-resistant ceramic body and high-quality metal components. After several months of regular use, the grill shows no signs of wear or rust, even in varied weather conditions. When paired with a good grill cover, this grill is poised to maintain its excellent condition for years to come.

Accessories and Extras
Kamado Joe offers a diverse range of accessories that enhance the versatility of the Classic II. I tested the JoeTisserie attachment, which produced evenly cooked rotisserie chicken with crispy skin and juicy meat. Additional accessories, such as the pizza stone and rib rack, further increase the grill’s functionality, making it a highly versatile outdoor cooking tool.
Price and Value
Although priced at a premium, the Kamado Joe Classic II offers excellent value for serious outdoor cooking enthusiasts. Its advanced features, durability, and versatility justify the investment, especially when compared to cheaper alternatives that lack the same build quality and functionality. For those who enjoy experimenting with various cooking styles, this grill delivers long-term value.
Cooking Versatility: More Than Just a Grill
The Kamado Joe Classic II goes beyond being just a grill; it offers the ability to bake, roast, smoke, and more. I was particularly impressed with its baking capabilities, which produced results comparable to those from wood-fired ovens. This versatility allows for a wide array of cooking techniques, making the grill suitable for everything from quick weeknight meals to elaborate weekend gatherings.
Managing the Learning Curve
While the Kamado Joe Classic II provides many benefits, it does come with a learning curve, especially for those new to kamado-style cooking. Mastering vent adjustments and maintaining consistent temperatures may take some practice, but once you get the hang of it, the process becomes intuitive. Embracing this learning curve has been an enjoyable part of exploring the grill’s full potential.
Fuel Efficiency and Performance
The Kamado Joe Classic II is remarkably fuel-efficient, utilizing less charcoal than standard grills. Whether you’re cooking for a short period or engaging in an all-day smoke, the grill’s efficient design minimizes fuel consumption. The performance, particularly in flavor, is exceptional, as natural lump charcoal imparts a rich, smoky taste to every dish.
Conclusion
The Kamado Joe Classic II is more than just a grill; it’s a complete outdoor cooking system. Whether you’re grilling burgers, slow-smoking a brisket, or baking a pizza, this ceramic grill can handle it all with ease. Its durable construction, excellent heat retention, and thoughtful features like the Air Lift Hinge and Divide & Conquer cooking system truly set it apart from the competition.
While it represents a significant investment, the versatility and performance of the Kamado Joe Classic II make it a worthwhile purchase for anyone serious about grilling. It has transformed my outdoor cooking experience and allowed me to explore new techniques that I couldn’t achieve with a standard grill. If you’re in the market for a top-tier grill that can handle everything from searing to smoking, the Kamado Joe Classic II should be at the top of your list.
FAQs for Kamado Joe Classic II
Q: What is the Kamado Joe Classic II made of?
A: The Kamado Joe Classic II is constructed from high-quality, thick-walled ceramic designed for superior heat retention. It also includes stainless steel components, heat-resistant fiberglass gaskets, and cast iron elements for added durability.
Q: What are the main features of the Kamado Joe Classic II?
A: Key features include the Kontrol Tower Top Vent, Divide & Conquer® Flexible Cooking System, Air Lift Hinge, AMP Firebox, Slide-Out Ash Drawer, and a built-in thermometer for monitoring temperature.
Q: How does the Kamado Joe Classic II compare to other kamado grills?
A: The Kamado Joe Classic II stands out with features like the Air Lift Hinge and Divide & Conquer system, providing greater flexibility and ease of use compared to similar models like the Big Green Egg.
Q: What is the cooking capacity of the Kamado Joe Classic II?
A: It offers 406 square inches of cooking space with the Divide & Conquer system, making it suitable for medium-sized groups.
Q: How long does it take to heat up?
A: The grill typically heats up in 10-15 minutes using lump charcoal, depending on the desired temperature and weather conditions.
Q: What kind of fuel does the Kamado Joe Classic II use?
A: It uses lump charcoal, which burns hotter and cleaner than briquettes.
Q: How does the Air Lift Hinge improve the grill?
A: The Air Lift Hinge reduces the weight of the ceramic lid by 96%, making it safer and easier to operate during long cooking sessions.
Q: Is the Kamado Joe Classic II suitable for smoking?
A: Yes, it is perfect for smoking due to its excellent heat retention and precise airflow control.
Q: How do you clean the Kamado Joe Classic II?
A: Cleaning is straightforward with the Slide-Out Ash Drawer and occasional high-temperature burns to remove residue.
Q: Is the Kamado Joe Classic II weather-resistant?
A: Yes, its ceramic body and durable materials make it weather-resistant, though a cover is recommended for added protection.