Kamado Joe Big Joe III vs Ooni Volt 12

Side-by-side comparison to help you choose the right one

Kamado Joe Big Joe III

Kamado Joe

Kamado Joe Big Joe III

£2,799

5/10Overall
VS
Ooni Volt 12

Ooni

Ooni Volt 12

£1,145

6/10Overall

Quick Summary

These represent different market segments. The Ooni Volt 12 (£1145) is the budget-friendly option, while the Kamado Joe Big Joe III (£2799) targets those seeking premium features. The £1654 price difference reflects significant differences in build quality and capabilities.

Key Differences

  • The Ooni Volt 12 is £1654 cheaper, making it the more budget-friendly option.
  • Different fuel types: Kamado Joe Big Joe III uses charcoal, while Ooni Volt 12 uses electric. This fundamentally affects cooking style, flavour, and convenience.
  • Target audiences differ: Kamado Joe Big Joe III is best for serious outdoor cooking enthusiasts, while Ooni Volt 12 suits serious home pizza enthusiasts.

Side-by-Side Comparison

Overview

Kamado Joe Big Joe III
Ooni Volt 12
Price
£2,799
£1,145
Brand
Kamado Joe
Ooni
Type
Charcoal
Electric
Overall Score
5/10
6/10

Ratings

Kamado Joe Big Joe III
Ooni Volt 12
Build Quality
4/10
4/10
Performance
9/10
9/10
Ease of Use
4/10
5/10
Maintenance
5/10
9/10
Value
4/10
5/10

Best For

Kamado Joe Big Joe III
Ooni Volt 12
Ideal User
Serious outdoor cooking enthusiasts
Serious home pizza enthusiasts
Use Case
Those who value authentic BBQ flavour and enjoy the ritual of charcoal cooking
Versatile outdoor cooking

Pros & Cons

Kamado Joe Big Joe III

👍 Pros

  • Authentic smoky flavour
  • Excellent for high-heat searing
  • Versatile cooking methods
  • No fuel dependency on gas/electric
  • Exceptional build quality

⚠️ Cons

  • Longer startup time
  • Steeper learning curve
  • Regular ash cleanup required
  • Significant investment

Ooni Volt 12

👍 Pros

  • Authentic high-temperature pizza cooking
  • Quick cook times once heated
  • No fuel to manage
  • Indoor/outdoor versatility
  • Exceptional build quality

⚠️ Cons

  • Lower max temperatures typically
  • Requires power supply
  • Premium price point

Winner by Category

Best for Beginners

Ooni Volt 12

Ooni Volt 12 offers a gentler learning curve.

Best Performance

Tie

Performance is comparable between both options.

Best Value

Ooni Volt 12

Ooni Volt 12 provides superior value at its price point.

Best Premium Option

Kamado Joe Big Joe III

Kamado Joe Big Joe III represents the higher-end choice with premium features.

Our Recommendation

Our recommendation: Ooni Volt 12

The Ooni Volt 12 wins in 2 out of 4 categories and earns our overall recommendation. The Volt brings Ooni quality indoors. Flats, apartments, rainy days — finally a solution. It's expensive and needs a 16A socket, but it genuinely delivers pizza oven performance inside.

Choose the Ooni Volt 12 if: You prioritise best for beginners, best value.

Choose the Kamado Joe Big Joe III if: You prefer Kamado Joe's approach, or you value best premium option.

Kamado Joe Big Joe III

£2,799

Ooni Volt 12

£1,145

Compare Other Products

Not the comparison you were looking for? Select different products to compare.

Choose Different Products