The drawbacks of a kamado BBQ

For a fair comparison it helps to look at The benefits of a kamado BBQ first, or to start at What is a kamado BBQ?.

Expensive?

The price is a drawback you hear a lot: a kamado is expensive. But expensive is a relative term. A Grill Bill kamado comes in several price brackets, from an affordable entry-level model like the Classic Kamado up to the pricier and therefore fully equipped Pro III Kamado — and we are very competitive against other brands.

The main drawbacks

• Slow to heat up because of the ceramic
• Heavier than metal BBQs
• Can crack from thermal shock if you fire it up too fast
• Needs time to settle at a new temperature

How to avoid these drawbacks

• Always heat up gently, and let any moisture the kamado has taken on evaporate properly first
• Use a sturdy base
• Choose quality ceramic
• Make small airflow adjustments

Want to read on?

• What makes ceramic cooking different?
• How does a kamado BBQ work?
• Buying a kamado: what to look out for