Kamado Joe Classic 2 vs 3: My Candid Take

Grilling in Austin, Texas means dealing with big heat swings and surprise storms. I needed a kamado grill that could handle both. If you’re stuck choosing between the Kamado Joe Classic II and III, here’s the quick answer: both are great, but the Classic III gives you more. It comes with extras like the SlōRoller and a taller cooking space.

I’ve used both grills on my patio through hot Texas summers. The differences really show when you’re smoking meat for hours or cooking a few things at once. I’ve been grilling for over 10 years, and I’ll share what I’ve learned. This will help you pick the one that fits your backyard style.

Is the Kamado Joe Classic Series II Good?

Yes—it’s a great grill. It’s strong, steady, and has earned a spot on my patio. If you love grilling or smoking, this grill will impress you.

The first time I used it, I made a rack of ribs on a cool Saturday. I cooked them low and slow. The heat stayed steady for more than six hours. I didn’t have to check it much. That was new to me. It made me feel like I knew what I was doing.

Another time, I seared steaks on a cold night. They were crisp outside and juicy inside. The grill handled high heat with no problem.

The Kamado Joe is made from thick ceramic. It holds heat well. The lid is heavy, but the Air Lift Hinge makes it easy to open. The top vent helps you adjust airflow with care. You don’t have to guess. The grill also has a split-level cooking rack. I can cook chicken on one side and veggies on the other. That makes things easier.

I live in the U.S., where the weather changes a lot. This grill works great in summer and winter.

What I Like

• It’s Well Made: The ceramic body feels strong. I’ve used it in hot and cold weather. It keeps the heat steady. It still works like new after months of use.
• It’s Flexible: The split rack helps me cook different foods at the same time. I don’t need to rush or juggle food. It gives me more ways to cook.
• It’s Easy to Use: The lid, vent, and ash drawer were all made with care. As a first-time kamado user, I didn’t feel lost. This grill makes charcoal cooking simple and fun.

What Could Be Better

• It’s Expensive: It costs a lot. I think it’s worth it, but not everyone will agree. If you only grill now and then, this might be more than you need.
• It’s Heavy: This grill is solid. Once it’s in place, don’t expect to move it often. I needed help getting it onto my deck.
• It Has a Learning Curve: The vent system takes time to learn. I overcooked my first brisket because the grill held heat so well. A short guide for first-time users would help.

Recommendation

If you love to grill in all seasons and want control over heat and flavor, this is a smart buy. It’s great for people who enjoy both smoking and grilling.

But if you grill once in a while, or have a tight space or budget, you may want to start with a smaller grill.

From my own use, the Kamado Joe Classic II makes cooking outside more fun and more reliable. It’s not just a grill—it’s a tool that makes you want to learn and try new things.

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Is the Kamado Joe Classic Series III Good?

Yes, the Kamado Joe Classic III is a great grill—but it’s not for everyone. If you like slow smoking on the weekend or fast searing during the week, this grill can do both. It gives steady heat, good smoke control, and feels high-end.

One weekend, I smoked ribs for six hours in cold weather. The heat stayed steady the whole time. Another day, I cranked it to over 600°F for pizza. It came out crisp and charred—just like wood-fired pizza. That range of use is what I love most.

This model comes with the SlōRoller Insert. It spreads heat and smoke better than I expected. The ceramic body, strong shelves, and light lid all make it easy to use.

This grill feels like a big step up—great for people who cook a lot and want top quality.

What I Like

• Built to Last: The thick ceramic body is strong and holds heat well. I’ve used it all year. Even now, it still works like new. The wire gasket is also tougher than older felt ones.
• Smart Design: The Air Lift Hatch is smooth. I can open the lid with one hand. The split rack lets me cook meat on one side and veggies on the other. It saves time and space.
• Works in Cold Weather: I live where winters get rough. Even in snow, this grill kept a steady temp. I smoked a brisket with no issues. The SlōRoller helped spread smoke without flare-ups.

What Could Be Better

• It’s Pricey: This grill costs more than many others. If you don’t grill much, it may not be worth it.
• Takes Time to Learn: It works well, but learning the vents and coals takes practice. The SlōRoller also changes heat flow, so there’s a bit to learn.
• It’s Heavy: The grill is big and solid. Moving it is not easy. You’ll likely need help, especially on rough ground.

Recommendation

If you grill a lot and want steady heat, strong parts, and great taste, go for the Kamado Joe Classic III. It’s perfect for cooks who like trying new styles—low and slow or fast and hot.

But if you grill once in a while or are just starting out, try a simpler model first. This one costs more and needs regular use to feel worth it.

From my time with it, this grill is perfect for U.S. backyard cooks who grill all year and want top-notch results.

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Kamado Joe Classic 2 vs 3: Easy Comparison

I’ve used both the Classic II and Classic III for months. If you’re trying to choose between them, I understand—it’s not easy. They’re both great grills. But after using them, the differences stand out.

Build Quality: Kamado Joe Classic 2 vs 3

Both grills are tough and well-made. But the Classic III is a bit stronger. Its cart is heavier and the parts feel more solid.

Rating: Classic II – 8.5/10 | Classic III – 9.5/10

Heat Retention: Kamado Joe Classic 2 vs 3

Both grills keep heat well. The Classic III does even better because it’s thicker and has the SlōRoller insert.

Rating: Classic II – 8/10 | Classic III – 9.5/10

Grilling Versatility: Kamado Joe Classic 2 vs 3

I’ve made pizzas, briskets, and more. The Classic III gives more control, especially for slow cooks.

Rating: Classic II – 8.5/10 | Classic III – 9.5/10

Cleaning & Maintenance: Kamado Joe Classic 2 vs 3

Both are easy to clean. But the Classic III has small updates that save time.

Rating: Classic II – 8/10 | Classic III – 9/10

Accessories & Extras: Kamado Joe Classic 2 vs 3

This is where the Classic III really stands out. It comes with more parts and features.

Rating: Classic II – 7.5/10 | Classic III – 9.5/10

Performance: Kamado Joe Classic 2 vs 3

Both grills work well. The Classic III just feels smoother and more exact. The SlōRoller is a big help for long cooks.

Rating: Classic II – 8.5/10 | Classic III – 9.5/10

Ease of Use: Kamado Joe Classic 2 vs 3

Both are easy once you learn. The Classic III makes that learning curve a bit easier.

Rating: Classic II – 8/10 | Classic III – 9/10

Value for Money: Kamado Joe Classic 2 vs 3

If you’re on a budget, go with the Classic II. But if you want top results and can spend more, the Classic III is worth it.

Rating: Classic II – 8.5/10 | Classic III – 9/10

Read More: Electric Griddle vs Gas Griddle

Final Thoughts: Which One?

I’d be happy with either. But the Classic III feels like the better long-term choice—if your budget allows.

Overall Rating: Classic II – 8.5/10 | Classic III – 9.5/10

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FAQs: Kamado Joe Classic 2 vs 3