Guide
Kamado Joe sizes and weights explained
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In short
Kamado Joe makes three main sizes: the Joe Jr with a 13.5 inch (34 cm) grate, the Classic with an 18 inch (46 cm) grate and the Big Joe with a 24 inch (61 cm) grate. The Joe Jr weighs roughly 30 kg and suits two people; the Classic is the family size and is much heavier on its cart; the Big Joe is for big gatherings and heavier again. Check the exact weight for your version.
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Kamado Joe sizes are named rather than numbered, and each size has had several versions over the years, such as the Classic I, II and III. That makes it confusing to compare grate sizes, weights and features. This article sets out the three main sizes, what each can cook, roughly what they weigh and how to identify the model you already own. Weights vary between versions and with or without the cart and side shelves, so treat them as a guide and check Kamado Joe's specifications for your exact model.
The three sizes at a glance
Grate diameters are Kamado Joe's figures. Cooking area is worked out from the main grate diameter; extra racks add more space.
kettle
1,735 cm² (269 sq in)
about 16 burgers of 10 cm
kettle
2,552 cm² (396 sq in)
about 24 burgers of 10 cm
kettle
3,526 cm² (546 sq in)
about 33 burgers of 10 cm
kamado
1,662 cm² (258 sq in)
about 15 burgers of 10 cm
Circles drawn to scale. Area is π x radius²; burger counts are rough, with a little space between each.
| Model | Grate diameter | Main grate area | Typical use |
|---|---|---|---|
| Joe Jr | 13.5 in (34 cm) | About 920 cm² | Two people, camping, small balconies where charcoal is allowed |
| Classic | 18 in (46 cm) | About 1,640 cm² | Families of four to six |
| Big Joe | 24 in (61 cm) | About 2,920 cm² | Large groups, big briskets, several racks of ribs |
How much they weigh
Ceramic kamados are very heavy, and Kamado Joe models are no exception. The Joe Jr is the only one most people can lift, at roughly 30 kg on its small stand, and even that is best as a two-person job. The Classic sits on a wheeled cart with side shelves, and its total weight is many times that of the Jr; it needs at least two people and good lifting technique to move off a pallet. The Big Joe is heavier still and is effectively a permanent fixture once placed.
Kamado Joe publishes shipping and product weights for each version on its website and in the manual. If you plan to put a kamado on decking, a balcony or a built-in table, check the exact figure and the load the surface can take.
Note:Moving a ceramic kamado is a lifting job for two or more people. Use the cart wheels on firm, level ground only, lock the casters when parked, and never try to lift a kamado by its lid, hinge or side shelves.
How many people each size feeds
The Joe Jr suits couples and small families cooking a few burgers, a couple of steaks or a small chicken. Its smaller firebox also uses little charcoal.
The Classic is the most popular size and the one most UK families choose. Its 18 inch grate handles a family meal comfortably, and the Divide and Conquer system lets you add half-moon racks at different heights for more space. It fits a typical brisket or two pork shoulders.
The Big Joe is for people who regularly feed a crowd or cook very large cuts. It takes more charcoal to run and more time to heat, so it makes less sense for everyday family cooks.
Our BBQ cooking area explained article converts grate sizes into burgers and servings.
Which Kamado Joe do I have?
Start with the size: measure the main grate diameter. Then look for these well-known features to tell the Classic and Big Joe versions apart.
- Version I: a traditional cast iron daisy-wheel top vent and a simpler hinge.
- Version II: the Kontrol Tower top vent and the Air Lift hinge that makes the lid feel lighter.
- Version III: adds the SloRoller insert for low and slow cooking and a three-level Divide and Conquer rack.
- Konnected Joe: a Classic-sized model with a digital fan controller and auto-ignition.
Choosing the right size
Most households are best served by the Classic: big enough for gatherings, small enough to heat quickly. Choose the Joe Jr if space, weight or portability matters most, or as a second cooker. Choose the Big Joe only if you often cook for ten or more.
For the wider choice between ceramic cookers, read Big Green Egg vs Kamado Joe and Kamado Joe Classic II vs Classic III. If you are still deciding between a kamado and other charcoal cookers, our best charcoal BBQs guide and best charcoal smokers guide cover kettles, bullets and offsets.
Frequently asked questions
What size is a Kamado Joe Classic? It has an 18 inch (46 cm) main grate, about 1,640 cm².
How heavy is a Kamado Joe Jr? Roughly 30 kg, depending on version and stand. Check Kamado Joe's figure for your model.
Is the Big Joe too big for a family? For a family of four, usually yes. It suits regular large gatherings.
Can I move a Kamado Joe Classic on its own? It rolls on its cart across firm, level ground, but lifting it takes at least two people.
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