Kamado Joe Classic II vs Classic III

What the two share

Both generations use the 18 in (about 46 cm) ceramic body that suits four to eight people. Both have the Air Lift hinge, which takes most of the weight of the heavy ceramic lid, and a cast top vent, the Kontrol Tower, designed to keep its setting when the lid opens. Both have a slide-out ash drawer under the firebox, which makes cleaning far easier than scooping ash out of the bowl.

Both also come with the Divide and Conquer system: a rack that holds half-moon grates and heat deflectors at different heights, so you can cook direct on one side and indirect on the other. Firebox, gasket and grate details have changed over the years, so check what a particular grill includes.

What the Classic III adds

The main addition is the SloRoller, a hyperbolic insert that sits above the fire. Kamado Joe says it creates rolling currents of smoke and heat for more even low and slow cooking, and it can be removed for direct grilling. The Classic III also has a three-tier Divide and Conquer rack, giving another level for cooking more food at once, and a sturdier rolling cart.

These are real improvements for people who smoke often and cook for bigger groups. For burgers, steaks, chicken and pizza they matter less.

Does the SloRoller make a difference?

For long smokes, the SloRoller aims to spread heat and smoke more evenly and reduce hot spots, which some owners find helps with brisket and ribs. A standard heat deflector set-up on a Classic II also works very well for low and slow cooking, and many people have cooked that way for years.

Kamado Joe sells a SloRoller insert, such as the Hyper Classic SloRoller with rack listed for Classic sizes, so a Classic II owner can add one later if they find they want it. Check fit for your exact grill before ordering.

Which should you buy?

Choose the Classic III if you plan to smoke a lot, cook for groups and want everything included from the start. Choose a Classic II, if you can find one, if you mainly grill, roast and make pizza, or if you want a capable family kamado and are happy to add accessories later.

If you are not yet sure a kamado is right for you, compare one against a kettle in kamado vs kettle, and look at dedicated smokers in best charcoal smokers. A 57 cm kettle with a smoking kit, listed in best charcoal BBQs, is a lighter alternative.

Note:Ceramic kamados are very heavy and stay hot for hours. Keep them on a stable, level surface, lock the cart wheels, open the lid slowly to avoid a flare of flame (burping), and close both vents to put the fire out.

Buying second-hand

Many Classic II grills are sold second-hand. Check the ceramic for cracks, particularly in the firebox and fire ring, which are wear parts and can be replaced. Look at the gasket, the hinge and the condition of the cart and vents. Ask what accessories are included, as the Divide and Conquer rack and deflectors are part of the value.

Warranty terms may not transfer to a second owner; check Kamado Joe's current terms before relying on them.

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Frequently asked questions

Is the Kamado Joe Classic III worth the upgrade from a Classic II? Only if you smoke often or need the extra rack level. Both cook equally well for grilling.

Can I add a SloRoller to a Classic II? Kamado Joe sells SloRoller inserts for Classic sizes; check compatibility with your exact model.

Are the Classic II and III the same size? Yes, both have an 18 in (about 46 cm) cooking grid.

Do both use lumpwood charcoal? Yes. Makers recommend good lumpwood; see lumpwood or briquettes.