Big Green Egg MiniMax review

The Big Green Egg MiniMax is a compact yet robust charcoal grill known for its high-quality craftsmanship and versatile cooking capabilities. Designed for those who appreciate the authentic smoky flavor of charcoal, it fits well in smaller spaces without sacrificing performance. While ideal for cooking for 4 to 6 people, its limited size may not suit larger gatherings.

Constructed with a durable ceramic shell, the MiniMax excels in heat retention and consistent temperature maintenance. Its sleek design and weather-resistant glaze ensure longevity. Though heavier than some portable grills, it offers excellent cooking performance across various methods, from grilling to baking.

The grill features precise temperature control through dual-function vents, though mastery may require practice. Its portability is convenient, albeit its 76-pound weight could be cumbersome for frequent transport. The MiniMax's versatility is enhanced by a range of accessories, though these add to the overall cost.

Compared to competitors like Weber Smokey Joe and Kamado Joe Jr., the MiniMax offers superior insulation and durability but at a higher price point. Despite some drawbacks, its quality and performance make it a worthwhile investment for grilling enthusiasts seeking a compact, versatile option.

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If you like this review, you might also like our review on the Big Green Egg 2XL / XXL or Big Green Egg Mini or Big Green Egg Medium.

Welcome to the world of charcoal grilling, where the Big Green Egg MiniMax promises to deliver top-notch barbecuing experiences. This compact yet robust model is a part of the highly acclaimed Big Green Egg lineup, known for its high-quality craftsmanship and versatile cooking capabilities. But what makes this grill stand out in the crowded market of charcoal barbecues?

The MiniMax is designed for those who love the authentic, smoky flavor that only charcoal can provide. With its smaller size, it's perfect for those who need a grill that fits into tighter spaces without compromising on performance. Whether you're a seasoned grill master or a backyard enthusiast, this grill aims to bring that perfect sear or slow-cooked tenderness to your outdoor cooking adventures.

While the MiniMax is packed with features, it's important to consider both its strengths and any potential drawbacks. For instance, its size makes it incredibly portable, but it might not be the best fit for those looking to cook for larger groups regularly. However, it is suitable for cooking for 4 to 6 people. As we dive deeper into this review, we'll explore all the details to help you decide if this is the right charcoal barbecue for your needs.

When it comes to design and build quality, the Big Green Egg MiniMax truly stands out. This grill is crafted with a robust ceramic shell that not only adds to its durability but also helps in heat retention. The ceramic material is known for its excellent insulating properties, ensuring that your grill maintains a consistent temperature throughout the cooking process. This means you can enjoy perfectly cooked meals every time without having to fuss too much over the grill.

The MiniMax sports a compact and sturdy design, making it an attractive choice for those who appreciate both form and function. Its sleek appearance is complemented by a distinctive green glaze that not only looks good but also provides a protective layer against weather elements. This glaze is resistant to fading and chipping, so your grill will maintain its fresh look for years.

One aspect that might be a slight letdown for some users is the weight. While the MiniMax is designed to be portable, its ceramic construction does make it a bit heavier than some other portable grills. However, it's a trade-off for the fantastic heat retention and durability that the ceramic offers.

The grill features a well-constructed stainless steel cooking grid, which is both durable and easy to clean. This is an important factor to consider, especially if you're planning to use your grill frequently. The grid provides ample cooking space for a small family or a group of friends, making it perfect for intimate gatherings.

Overall, the Big Green Egg MiniMax offers a solid construction and a stylish design that is sure to impress any barbecue enthusiast. It's a grill that promises longevity and reliability, making it a worthwhile investment for those who take their grilling seriously.

The cooking performance of the Big Green Egg MiniMax is something that many barbecue enthusiasts rave about. This compact grill packs a punch when it comes to delivering delicious, smoky flavors. Its ceramic build is a game-changer, providing exceptional heat retention, which means your food gets cooked evenly and thoroughly.

One of the best things about this grill is its ability to handle a variety of cooking styles. Whether you're into grilling, smoking, or baking, the MiniMax does it all with ease. The grill reaches high temperatures quickly, making it perfect for searing steaks or creating that juicy, crispy skin on chicken. On the flip side, it maintains low temperatures steadily for those long, slow cooks that are ideal for smoking ribs or brisket.

But, let's be honest, no grill is perfect. The MiniMax might not be the best option for large gatherings. Its cooking area is limited, so if you're planning to feed a crowd, you might find yourself cooking in batches. However, for a small family or a couple of friends, it's more than sufficient.

Also, the ceramic material can be a bit heavy, so while it retains heat well, it might take a while to cool down after cooking. This means if you're in a rush to clean up, you'll need to exercise a little patience.

Overall, the MiniMax offers a versatile cooking experience that satisfies both novice grillers and seasoned barbecue masters. Its ability to maintain consistent temperatures and adapt to various cooking methods makes it a solid choice for anyone looking to up their grilling game.

Temperature control is a big deal when you're grilling, and the Big Green Egg MiniMax doesn't disappoint. Thanks to its high-quality ceramic construction, this grill excels at maintaining consistent heat, which is key for both low-and-slow cooking and high-heat searing. The thick ceramic walls help retain heat exceptionally well, allowing you to grill even in colder weather without a hitch.

One of the standout features of this grill is the dual-function metal top. This component allows you to fine-tune the airflow and, subsequently, the temperature inside the grill. Whether you're aiming for a slow roast or a quick sear, you can adjust the top vent with precision. The bottom vent also plays a crucial role, providing additional control over airflow. By adjusting both the top and bottom vents, you can achieve a wide range of temperatures, from a gentle 200°F for smoking to a fiery 750°F for searing steaks.

However, one minor hiccup is that it can take a bit of practice to master the vent settings, especially if you're new to charcoal grilling. Finding that sweet spot between too much and too little airflow might require some trial and error. But once you get the hang of it, you'll be able to dial in the perfect temperature for any meal.

Overall, the Big Green Egg MiniMax offers impressive temperature control that makes it a versatile option for backyard chefs. Whether you're a beginner or a seasoned grill master, you'll appreciate the control and consistency this grill provides.

The portability of the Big Green Egg MiniMax is one of its standout characteristics. This compact grill is designed to be easily transported, making it a favorite for those who love to barbecue on the go. Weighing in at about 76 pounds, it's not exactly feather-light, but it’s manageable enough for two people to carry without much hassle. The EGG Carrier, which is included, makes transporting it even easier.

In terms of size, the MiniMax is a true space-saver. With a cooking area of approximately 133 square inches, it’s perfect for small gatherings or a cozy family dinner. It can comfortably fit a few steaks, a couple of burgers, or even a whole chicken if you’re feeling adventurous. Despite its compact size, it doesn’t compromise on cooking capacity, which is a big plus for those with limited outdoor space.

However, if you’re planning to take it on a camping trip or to the beach, keep in mind that while it's portable, it still requires a flat, stable surface to set up. It might not be the best choice for those looking for something ultra-lightweight or easy to toss in the trunk without a second thought.

Overall, the MiniMax strikes a good balance between portability and cooking capability. It's ideal for backyard barbecues and small outdoor adventures, but if you're looking for something you can easily move solo, you might want to consider a smaller, lighter option.

When you open the box of the Big Green Egg MiniMax, you're greeted with everything you need to get started on your charcoal grilling journey. First, you'll find the ceramic grill itself, which is the star of the show. This grill is known for its durability and heat retention, thanks to its high-quality ceramic construction. Alongside the grill, there's a stainless steel cooking grid.

This grid is robust and provides ample space for your grilling needs, with a diameter of 13 inches (33 cm) and a cooking area of approximately 133 square inches (855 cm²). The stainless steel material ensures longevity and is easy to clean, which is always a plus when dealing with charcoal grills. You'll also find the ceramic firebox and fire ring, essential components for maintaining consistent heat during cooking. These pieces are designed to withstand high temperatures and contribute to the grill's impressive performance.

The box includes a dual-function metal top, which plays a crucial role in temperature control. This top allows you to adjust the airflow precisely, helping you maintain the perfect cooking temperature.

For convenience, the package includes an EGG Carrier, which makes it easier to transport the grill. Although the MiniMax isn't the lightest option out there, weighing about 76 pounds (35 kg), the carrier helps with mobility. Lastly, there are some basic tools and accessories to get you started, like the ash removal tool, which is handy for keeping your grill clean and ready for the next cookout.

While the contents are quite comprehensive, some users might find the lack of a starter charcoal kit a bit of a bummer. You’ll need to have your own charcoal ready to fire up the grill for the first time. But overall, everything you need to start grilling is right there in the box, ready for your next barbecue adventure.

When it comes to versatility, the Big Green Egg MiniMax truly shines. This compact powerhouse isn't just for grilling; it can also smoke, roast, and even bake. Imagine whipping up a delicious smoked brisket or a batch of freshly baked bread—all in one device. Its ability to maintain a wide range of temperatures makes it a versatile choice for various cooking styles.

One of the key aspects that enhance its versatility is the range of accessories available. From the convEGGtor for indirect cooking to the cast iron grill grates for those perfect sear marks, there's something to cater to every cooking need. There's also a pizza stone that lets you create crispy, restaurant-quality pizzas right at home. However, while these accessories expand what you can do with the grill, they do come at an additional cost, which might not sit well with everyone.

Moreover, the MiniMax's design includes a vent system that allows for more precise airflow control, adding another layer of flexibility in cooking techniques. Whether you're looking to slow-cook a tender rack of ribs or flash-sear a steak, this grill can manage it all with ease.

On the downside, the compact size of the MiniMax means that the cooking space is somewhat limited, which could be a constraint when cooking for larger groups. While it's perfect for a small gathering or a family meal, you might need to cook in batches if you're hosting a bigger barbecue party.

In summary, the Big Green Egg MiniMax offers a remarkable range of cooking possibilities, bolstered by a variety of accessories. It's a versatile tool for any backyard chef, though the extra purchases and size limitations are worth considering based on your cooking needs.

The Big Green Egg MiniMax is a popular choice among charcoal barbecue enthusiasts, but how does it stack up against its competitors? Let's take a look.

Weber Smokey Joe is often seen as the go-to for those seeking a portable charcoal grill. It’s lightweight and easy to carry around, making it perfect for camping trips. However, the MiniMax offers superior insulation and heat retention thanks to its ceramic build, which means you can get more consistent cooking results. The Smokey Joe, while reliable, struggles to maintain temperature over long periods, a task the MiniMax handles with ease.

Kamado Joe Jr. is another ceramic grill that competes directly with the MiniMax. Both offer excellent temperature control and versatility. The Kamado Joe Jr. comes with a sturdy stand and a unique air lift hinge, making it easier to open. However, the MiniMax has an edge with its unmatched reputation for durability and the vast array of accessories available, which allows you to customize your cooking experience extensively.

Then there's the Char-Griller Akorn Jr. or similar grills like the PK Grill, known for their unique designs. The PK Grill, for instance, is recognized for its retro design and cast aluminum build. It heats up quickly and is rust-proof, which is a big plus for outdoor cooking. Yet, it falls short in terms of heat retention compared to the MiniMax.

The PK Grill is also larger, which can be a downside if space is a concern. In terms of price, the MiniMax sits on the higher end of the scale, which could be a deterrent for budget-conscious buyers. However, the investment pays off with its longevity and performance. If you're looking for a grill that combines portability with serious cooking power, the MiniMax is tough to beat. But if you’re just after something simple for a casual cookout, you might find more value in a less expensive option like the Weber Smokey Joe. 

Ultimately, it boils down to what you prioritize in a grill. If you value top-notch cooking performance and versatility, the MiniMax is worth considering despite its price tag. But if portability or budget is your main concern, you might want to explore other options.

Video by: Big Green Egg Europe

In conclusion, the Big Green Egg MiniMax is a solid choice for those who love grilling but need a more compact solution. Its build quality is top-notch, ensuring durability and longevity, which is essential for outdoor cooking gear. The cooking performance is impressive, offering the same great taste and versatility as its bigger siblings. From searing steaks to baking pizzas, this grill does it all.

One of the standout features of the MiniMax is its temperature control. Whether you're aiming for a low and slow cook or a high-heat sear, the precise control makes it easy to achieve the results you want. However, it's worth mentioning that mastering the airflow adjustments might take a bit of practice for beginners.

Its portability is a major plus, allowing you to take it to tailgates or camping trips with ease. Nonetheless, its weight could be a downside for some, as it's not the lightest option available.

Overall, the MiniMax offers great versatility, and with the wide range of accessories, you can expand its capabilities even further. However, these accessories can add to the overall cost, so that's something to keep in mind if you're on a budget.

Comparing it to its competitors, the MiniMax holds its ground well but might seem a bit pricey. Yet, for those who appreciate quality and performance, it's a worthwhile investment.

In summary, if you're looking for a high-quality, versatile charcoal grill that doesn't take up much space, the Big Green Egg MiniMax is definitely worth considering. While it may have a few drawbacks, its strengths far outweigh them, making it a valuable addition to any grilling enthusiast's lineup.

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