Kamado Joe Konnected Joe review

The Kamado Joe Konnected Joe is a noteworthy contender in the world of charcoal grilling, merging traditional barbecue methods with modern technology. Its standout features include smart connectivity via a user-friendly app, allowing remote temperature monitoring and control. The grill's robust ceramic construction ensures excellent heat retention and distribution, making it ideal for various cooking styles, from smoking to searing. However, the integration of technology might not appeal to traditionalists who prefer a more hands-on grilling experience. Additionally, its substantial weight could be a drawback for those needing portability.

The Konnected Joe's cooking performance is impressive, offering consistent heat and precise temperature control. Its design incorporates practical elements like an air-tight seal and stainless steel grates, enhancing durability and ease of use. Despite a slight learning curve associated with its tech features, the grill is generally user-friendly, thanks to its intuitive digital interface and app connectivity.

While the initial cost may be high, the grill's advanced features and reliable performance justify the investment for serious barbecue enthusiasts. Overall, the Kamado Joe Konnected Joe offers a unique grilling experience, blending the charm of charcoal cooking with the convenience of modern advancements.

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If you like this review, you might also like our review on the Kamado Joe Big Joe 3 or Kamado Joe Big Joe 2 or Kamado Joe Kettle Joe 22-inch.

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The Kamado Joe Konnected Joe promises to make your barbecue experience both fun and efficient. This grill isn't just about the traditional smoky flavor; it's about integrating modern technology with classic cooking methods. But does it deliver on all fronts? Let's dive in and see what this grill is all about.

At first glance, the Kamado Joe Konnected Joe stands out with its unique design and promise of high-tech features. It's not just a grill; it's a statement piece for your backyard. But beyond aesthetics, it's important to understand what sets it apart from other charcoal barbecues. With a smart blend of innovation and tradition, this grill aims to offer something for both the seasoned grill master and the casual weekend warrior.

While the idea of a "connected" charcoal grill might sound a bit futuristic, the concept is simple: bring convenience and precision to your grilling. However, it's crucial to consider if the tech enhancements genuinely enhance the grilling experience or if they complicate the straightforward joy of cooking over coals. In this review, we'll explore how well it balances these elements and whether it's the right fit for your outdoor cooking adventures.

The design and build quality of the Kamado Joe Konnected Joe is a testament to both style and durability. Right off the bat, you'll notice its robust ceramic body, which not only looks sleek but also offers excellent heat retention. This means you can grill, smoke, or roast with consistent temperatures, ensuring your food is cooked perfectly every time. The ceramic material is known for its ability to maintain heat, which is essential for those long, slow cooks that bring out incredible flavors.

Now, let's talk about the build quality. The Kamado Joe Konnected Joe is built like a tank. The thick walls and solid construction mean this grill can withstand the elements and last for years. It's not just about sturdiness, though. The design also incorporates thoughtful touches like the stainless steel cooking grates, which are not only durable but also easy to clean.

Another impressive aspect is the air-tight seal provided by the gasket. This ensures that heat and smoke stay locked in, making your cooking more efficient. Plus, the Kontrol Tower™ top vent allows for precise airflow control, giving you the power to manage temperatures with ease.

However, it's worth mentioning that all this quality comes at a price. The Kamado Joe Konnected Joe is heavier than some of its competitors, which might make it a bit challenging to move around your backyard. But, considering its solid construction and performance, many would argue that it's a small trade-off for what you get.

In summary, the design and build quality of the Kamado Joe Konnected Joe are impressive, combining durability with practical features that enhance your grilling experience. While it might not be the lightest option out there, its sturdy construction and thoughtful design elements more than make up for it.

The Kamado Joe Konnected Joe is packed with a variety of innovative features and technology that make it stand out in the charcoal barbecue market. At the forefront is its smart connectivity. This grill integrates seamlessly with the Kamado Joe app via Wi-Fi, allowing you to monitor and adjust cooking temperatures remotely, track up to four meat probes, and access recipes. This means you can keep an eye on your meal while catching up on other tasks or simply relaxing with friends.

One of the standout technologies here is the automatic temperature control system. With a built-in digital fan and Kontrol Board, the grill maintains consistent heat levels between 225°F and 700°F without constant babysitting. It’s like having a personal chef managing your grill’s temperature, ensuring perfectly cooked meals every time.

Another feature worth mentioning is the high-tech ceramic body. This design not only retains heat efficiently but also ensures even heat distribution across the 18-inch, 250 sq. in. cooking surface. This feature is particularly useful for those who love experimenting with various cooking styles, from smoking to baking.

However, the technological advancements come at a price. The smart features require a reliable Wi-Fi connection, which might be a limitation if you're planning on using it in areas with poor signal strength. Additionally, the app interface, while generally user-friendly, could use some refinements to make it more intuitive for first-time users.

Overall, the Kamado Joe Konnected Joe offers a blend of traditional grilling with modern technology. It caters to both tech-savvy grillers and those looking for convenience in their culinary adventures.

The cooking performance of the Kamado Joe Konnected Joe is quite impressive, making it a solid choice for both BBQ beginners and seasoned grill masters. The unique ceramic construction ensures excellent heat retention and distribution, which is crucial for achieving those perfect sear marks on your steaks or a nice even cook on your slow-roasted meats.

This grill excels in maintaining consistent temperatures, a key factor for successful barbecuing. The thick ceramic walls act as a natural insulator, allowing you to cook in various weather conditions without worrying about heat loss. Whether you're grilling burgers or smoking ribs, the temperature control is commendable, thanks to its Kontrol Tower top vent that gives you precise control over airflow.

One of the standout features is the ability to smoke with ease, thanks to its design. The Kamado Joe Konnected Joe lets you infuse your dishes with rich, smoky flavors by just adding a handful of wood chips or chunks. The slow and low cooking capabilities are top-notch, making it ideal for briskets and pork shoulders.

However, the learning curve can be a bit steep for those new to kamado-style grilling. It might take a few tries to master the vent adjustments and get the temperature just right for different cooking styles. But once you get the hang of it, the results are rewarding.

Overall, the Kamado Joe Konnected Joe delivers a versatile and reliable cooking experience, making it a worthy companion for any backyard chef looking to elevate their barbecue game.

When it comes to ease of use, the Kamado Joe Konnected Joe is pretty straightforward, even for beginners. This grill has been designed to make your barbecuing experience as smooth as possible. The easy-to-read digital interface is a game changer. It allows you to control the temperature and monitor cooking times with just a few taps. The integrated app is another fantastic addition, letting you manage your grill from your smartphone via Wi-Fi. Just imagine lounging in your backyard while keeping an eye on your brisket from your phone—pretty neat, right?

However, there might be a slight learning curve if you're not familiar with using tech-savvy grills. Setting up the app and syncing it with the grill can be a bit tricky at first. But once you get the hang of it, it becomes second nature.

Another aspect that adds to its user-friendliness is the Air Lift Hinge, which allows the lid to open effortlessly and stay put, making it easy to check on your food without wrestling with a heavy cover. The Kontrol Tower top vent is also well-designed, allowing for precise control over airflow, which is essential for achieving the perfect cook.

On the downside, the grill's weight can be a bit of a challenge if you plan to move it around often. It's sturdy and robust, which is great for durability, but not so much for portability. If you're looking to transport it frequently, you might want to consider this aspect.

Overall, the ease of use is one of the Konnected Joe's strong suits, thanks to its smart features and user-friendly design. Just be prepared for a slight tech adjustment period, and you'll be grilling like a pro in no time.

When you open the box of the Kamado Joe Konnected Joe, you're greeted with a well-organized package that ensures everything arrives in tip-top shape. Here's what you can expect to find inside:

• Kamado Joe Grill: The centerpiece of the package, this 18-inch WiFi ceramic grill is sturdy and ready for action.
• Stainless Steel Cooking Grates: Durable and rust-resistant, these grates are designed to handle high temperatures and provide even cooking.
• Heat Deflectors: These handy accessories allow for indirect cooking, making it easier to slow-cook or smoke your favorite foods.
• Advanced Multi-panel (AMP) Firebox: This component is designed for optimal airflow, helping maintain consistent temperatures.
• Automatic Fire Starter (AFS) and Digital Kontrol Board: These features set the Konnected Joe apart. The AFS button instantly lights your charcoal, while the Digital Kontrol Board lets you control the temperature and cooking time through a user-friendly interface.
• Instruction Manual: A straightforward guide that helps you get familiar with the grill's setup and features.

While the box includes most of what you need to get started, it’s worth noting that the package doesn't come with charcoal or any starter tools. You'll need to have those on hand to begin grilling. Additionally, some users might find the assembly instructions a bit sparse, so keep that in mind when setting up.

Keeping your charcoal grill in tip-top shape is crucial for longevity and optimal performance. The Kamado Joe Konnected Joe makes this task relatively straightforward, but there are a few things you should be aware of.

Cleaning the Grill

The grill's ceramic body is built to withstand high temperatures, which helps in burning off excess grease and food particles. For a thorough clean, consider performing a self-cleaning burn-off by heating the grill to 600°F (315°C) for 15-20 minutes with the vents open, then closing the bottom vent and waiting another 15-20 minutes before closing the top vent. Afterward, brush the cooking grates with a standard grill brush and the ceramics with a soft bristle brush. Avoid using harsh chemicals on the ceramic surfaces as they might damage the material.

Ash Management

One of the standout features is the ash drawer, which makes ash removal a breeze. Simply slide it out and dispose of the ash safely. This is a big plus because it saves you from having to dig around inside the grill, which can be messy and time-consuming.

Maintaining the Grates

The stainless steel cooking grates are durable and easy to clean. A quick scrub with a grill brush while they are still warm will usually do the trick. For a deeper clean, soak them in soapy water and scrub with a non-abrasive pad to remove stubborn residues.

Monitoring the Electronics

Since this grill comes with smart technology, it's important to occasionally check the connections and sensors. Ensure that the electronic components are kept dry and free from grease build-up. This will help maintain the grill's performance and extend the life of its smart features.

Seasonal Maintenance

When not in use, especially during the colder months, consider using a grill cover to protect it from the elements. This will prevent rusting and keep the grill clean, reducing the need for extensive cleaning sessions when grilling season kicks back in.

Overall, the maintenance and cleaning for this grill are pretty straightforward. The clever design features like the ash drawer make it more convenient than many other models on the market. Just remember, a little regular upkeep goes a long way in ensuring your grill serves you well for many seasons to come.

In the competitive world of charcoal barbecues, several models vie for attention. Let's see how the Kamado Joe Konnected Joe stacks up against some of its main competitors.

Big Green Egg

The Big Green Egg is a well-known name in the kamado grill arena. It boasts a loyal fanbase thanks to its durable ceramic construction and excellent heat retention. However, the Big Green Egg lacks the advanced smart technology features that the Konnected Joe offers, such as app connectivity and precise temperature control. If you're a tech enthusiast, the Konnected Joe might be more appealing.

Weber Summit Kamado

The Weber Summit Kamado is another heavy hitter, prized for its insulated steel body and versatility. It offers a larger cooking area compared to the Konnected Joe, which can be a plus if you're cooking for a crowd. However, in terms of innovative features, Weber lags behind. The Konnected Joe's integration of modern tech gives it an edge in the realm of convenience and precision.

Char-Griller Akorn

The Char-Griller Akorn is a more budget-friendly option. It provides a good balance between performance and cost, utilizing a triple-walled steel design for heat retention. While it’s a solid choice for those on a tight budget, it doesn't quite match the high-tech offerings and build quality of the Konnected Joe. For those willing to invest a bit more for enhanced features and durability, the Konnected Joe is a better fit.

Vision Grills

Vision Grills offer a variety of kamado-style options, including some with electric startup features. While they do have some models with electronic temperature control, they often don’t have the same level of app integration and user-friendly interface that the Konnected Joe provides. If seamless connectivity is a priority, the Konnected Joe might be the way to go.

Overall, while each competitor has its merits, the Konnected Joe's blend of traditional grilling prowess with modern technology sets it apart, especially for those looking to integrate their cooking experience with the latest tech advancements.

Video by: Kamado Joe

In conclusion, the Kamado Joe Konnected Joe is a solid contender for anyone serious about charcoal grilling. Its blend of traditional grilling charm with modern tech conveniences makes it a unique option on the market. The grill’s robust design and advanced features, like its smart tech integration, certainly set it apart from many of its competitors.

However, it's worth noting that the integration of technology may not be everyone's preference, especially for those who prefer a more hands-on grilling experience. The tech-savvy features can be a bit overwhelming if you're not used to smart devices. Additionally, while the build quality is impressive, the unit's weight might make it less portable than some might prefer.

Despite these minor drawbacks, the cooking performance is nothing short of excellent. The grill provides consistent heat distribution and precise temperature control, allowing for perfectly cooked meals every time. Whether you're searing steaks or smoking ribs, this grill delivers.

All in all, if you're looking for a grill that offers a fusion of traditional barbecue methods with modern advancements, the Kamado Joe Konnected Joe is definitely worth considering. It offers a unique grilling experience that can elevate your outdoor cooking game to a whole new level.

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