Primo vs Kamado Joe vs Big Green Egg: Which Ceramic Grill Is Best?
When it comes to ceramic grills, three names dominate the conversation: Primo, Kamado Joe, and Big Green Egg. Each has loyal fans, signature features, and decades of reputation behind them. But if you’re new to ceramic cooking—or thinking about upgrading—how do you choose the best one?
In this detailed comparison, we break down specs, pros and cons, and who each grill is best suited for. Whether you're focused on American-made quality, cutting-edge innovation, or classic simplicity, this guide will help you pick the right kamado for your style.
- Brand Overview
- Spec-by-Spec Comparison
- Primo Ceramic Grills
- Kamado Joe
- Big Green Egg
- Who Should Buy Which?
- FAQs
- Conclusion
Brand Overview
Ceramic grills excel at heat retention, moisture control, and versatility—sear, smoke, roast, or bake, all in one cooker. Here’s a quick intro to the three contenders:
- Primo: The only major ceramic grill brand made in the USA. Known for its unique oval shape and durable construction.
- Kamado Joe: An innovation-driven brand loaded with features like the Divide & Conquer cooking system and Air Lift Hinge.
- Big Green Egg: The original kamado brand in the U.S., known for simplicity, quality, and an extensive accessory ecosystem.
Spec-by-Spec Comparison
| Feature | Primo XL | Kamado Joe Classic III | Big Green Egg Large |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cooking Area | 400–680 sq in | 406 sq in + racks | 262 sq in |
| Shape | Oval | Round | Round |
| Build Origin | USA | China | Mexico |
| Warranty | 20-year ceramic, 5-year metal | Limited lifetime ceramic | Limited lifetime ceramic |
| Included Stand | Yes (All-In-One models) | Yes | No |
| Air Hinge | No | Yes | No |
| Retail Price Range | $1,399–$1,999 | $1,999+ | $999–$1,199 (grill only) |
Primo Ceramic Grills
Primo’s standout feature is its patented oval shape, which allows for true two-zone cooking. That means you can sear steaks on one side and smoke ribs on the other—all without accessories. The shape also provides more usable cooking space across the grates compared to round kamado grills.
Primo grills are made in the USA with premium ceramic, offering excellent insulation and durability. Available in three sizes—Junior, Large, and XL—they offer All-In-One packages that include a cradle, shelves, and tools right out of the box.
Pros:
- Made in the USA
- Unique oval design for multi-zone cooking
- Competitive warranty and pricing
- All-In-One bundles available
Cons:
- Fewer high-tech features
- Heavier than others in the same size class
Kamado Joe
Kamado Joe is the most feature-rich kamado on the market. With the Classic III, you get a 3-tier Divide & Conquer cooking system, Air Lift Hinge for easy lid handling, SloRoller hyperbolic insert for improved smoke circulation, and a stainless steel cart. The brand also offers a modular table system for building out your outdoor kitchen.
Pros:
- Best-in-class features
- Flexible cooking rack system
- Air Lift Hinge reduces lid weight by 96%
- Excellent build quality and presentation
Cons:
- Made overseas
- Higher price point
- Bulkier design limits portability
Big Green Egg
The original kamado-style grill to make it big in the U.S., Big Green Egg (BGE) is known for its classic design and loyal following. It offers reliable temperature control, strong ceramic construction, and a massive ecosystem of branded accessories. However, almost all add-ons—including the stand—must be purchased separately.
Pros:
- Proven legacy and loyal community
- Simple and effective design
- Broad range of sizes and accessories
Cons:
- Fewer standard features
- Accessories not included
- No oval or multi-zone flexibility
Who Should Buy Which?
Choose Primo if:
- You want made-in-USA quality
- You need flexible cooking zones
- You’re focused on smoking, roasting, and indirect cooks
- You want a larger cook area
Choose Kamado Joe if:
- You love advanced features and convenience
- You enjoy grilling multiple types of food at once
- You want premium design and a comprehensive system
Choose Big Green Egg if:
- You want a proven, no-nonsense grill
- You prefer to customize your setup piece-by-piece
- You value simplicity over high-tech features
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Primo better than Big Green Egg?
If two-zone cooking and made-in-USA quality matter to you, Primo has a clear edge. BGE wins for simplicity and legacy branding.
Why is Kamado Joe more expensive?
Kamado Joe includes more built-in features, premium racks, and advanced airflow and hinge systems that justify the higher price tag.
Can you smoke on all three grills?
Yes—all are excellent for low and slow cooks. Primo’s oval shape gives more room for separation and airflow control.
Do all brands come with stands?
Only Primo (All-In-One) and Kamado Joe include stands standard. Big Green Egg requires separate purchase.
Are replacement parts easy to find?
Yes—all three brands have strong dealer networks and readily available replacement parts and accessories.
Conclusion
Each of these ceramic grills has its strengths. If you value American craftsmanship, zone cooking flexibility, and straightforward performance, Primo is your best bet. If you love high-tech upgrades and visual design, Kamado Joe offers unmatched innovation. And if you're loyal to tradition and prefer simplicity, Big Green Egg is a solid choice.
No matter your choice, all three grills deliver exceptional performance, flavor, and durability. The right one depends on how you cook and what you value most in your outdoor kitchen setup.
Did our blog meet your needs? You might also find these guides helpful:
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