Embroidered Capelets Xl
Kamado Joe Classic I vs Classic II: What’s the Real Difference?
Apr
Kamado Joe Classic I vs Classic II: What’s the Real Difference?
If you’re looking to get into kamado-style cooking, you’ll almost certainly come across two popular options: the Classic I and the Classic II from Kamado Joe. At first glance, they look nearly identical and in many ways, they are. But once you dig deeper, the differences start to matter, especially depending on how often you plan to cook and how much convenience you want.
Let’s break it down.
| Cooking area | CLASSIC 1
18″ (46 cm) | CLASSIC 2
18″ (46 cm) |
| Heat range | 107–399°C | Similar range |
| Cooking system | Divide & Conquer | Divide & Conquer |
| Hinge | Standard spring | Air Lift hinge (lighter lid) |
| Top vent | Cast iron | Kontrol Tower (weather-resistant) |
| Gasket | Felt | Fibreglass mesh (longer lasting) |
| Cleaning | Slide-out ash drawer | Same |
| Build quality | Solid | More premium finish |
| Ease of use | Good | Easier overall |
| Typical price | Lower | Higher |
Cooking Performance: No Real Difference
Let’s get this out of the way first both grills cook the same.
They share:
- Thick ceramic walls for heat retention
- The Divide & Conquer cooking system
- Excellent temperature control for low-and-slow or high-heat searing
The Classic I already delivers everything you need for authentic kamado cooking, from smoking brisket to baking pizza. The Classic II doesn’t improve flavour or cooking capability however it improves the experience.
The ceramic design itself is what makes these grills special, locking in moisture and smoke for consistent results with lifetime warranty.
Where the Classic II Steps Ahead
The upgrades on the Classic II are all about usability and longevity.
1. Air Lift Hinge
The Classic II features a redesigned hinge system unique to Kamado Joe that significantly reduces the weight of the lid.
- Easier to open and close with hands full
- Less strain on springs over time
- Feels more premium immediately out the box
This is one of the most noticeable differences in day-to-day use.
2. Kontrol Tower Top Vent
The Classic I uses a traditional cast iron daisy wheel vent, while the Classic II upgrades to an aluminium “Kontrol Tower.”
- Holds temperature settings better
- Doesn’t rust like cast iron
- Performs better in rain and wind
If you cook year-round (especially in the UK), this matters more than you’d think.
3. Fibreglass Gasket
The gasket seals the lid and keeps heat and smoke inside.
- Classic I: Felt gasket (wears out faster and holds moisture if left uncovered)
- Classic II: Fibreglass mesh (much more durable and provides a better seal)
- Classic II: Includes a Stainless Steel lock at the front to keep the lid stut without putting weight and compressing the seal.
This reduces maintenance and replacement costs over time.
Where the Classic I Still Wins
Despite being the “entry-level” model, the Classic I is far from basic when comparing other ceramic brands.
It includes:
- A patented ash drawer for easy cleaning (found across the full range)
- Stainless steel grates (found across the full range)
- Full Divide & Conquer system (found across the full range)
- Solid ceramic construction (found across the full range)
And most importantly it’s significantly cheaper and still has manufacturers lifetime warranty.
That makes it one of the best-value kamado grills on the market.
If your needing any more information when making your decision why not give us a call. We are a premier retailer for Kamado Joe here in the UK, a true family business priding ourselves in BBQ knowledge and Customer service. We also have a price match guarantee at the moment so it’s always worth giving us a call to discuss discounts and prices. We have everything in stock and offer a Next Day Delivery UK
DISCOUNT CODE ‘SUNSALE’ FOR EXTRA 10% KAMADO JOE GRILLS AND BUNDLES!
01560 480002