Stepping into the world of Kamado grilling brings new possibilities, from precise temperature control to excellent versatility for grilling, smoking, and roasting. Both the Char-Griller Akorn (20″) and Grill Guru Medium are solid choices, especially given their similar price range. Let’s look at the main factors to consider to help you decide which Kamado will suit your needs best.
1. Material Matters: Steel vs. Ceramic
- Char-Griller Akorn: The Akorn is made from triple-insulated steel, which has its own benefits. Steel kamados are much lighter than ceramic, making them easier to move. Steel construction also heats up faster than ceramic and retains heat well. This insulation allows for excellent fuel efficiency, so you’ll use less charcoal over time.
- Grill Guru Medium: As a ceramic Kamado, the Grill Guru excels at heat retention and stability. Ceramic holds heat exceptionally well and provides consistent temperatures for long cooks, making it a great choice for low-and-slow BBQ, like smoked brisket or pulled pork. Ceramic is also naturally more resistant to rust, which can be beneficial if the grill will be exposed to elements (even if kept under a cover).
Pro Tip: If weight and mobility are important, the Akorn is easier to handle. For the best heat retention and temperature stability, ceramic, like in the Grill Guru, is usually superior.
2. Temperature Control and Stability
- Char-Griller Akorn: Steel kamados are known to fluctuate a bit more in temperature than ceramic models, but the Akorn’s insulated steel design helps mitigate this. With practice, you’ll likely find it easy to control temps on the Akorn, but it may require a bit more attention to keep them steady during very long cooks.
- Grill Guru Medium: Ceramic Kamados, including the Grill Guru, are built for temperature stability. Once heated, ceramic walls maintain steady temperatures for extended periods, allowing you to “set it and forget it” for low-and-slow cooking. If consistent heat control is a priority, the Grill Guru’s ceramic build will give you an edge.
Pro Tip: Both options will offer better temperature control than most traditional grills. However, if you plan on doing a lot of low-and-slow cooking, ceramic’s natural stability might give the Grill Guru an edge in maintaining consistent temps over hours.
3. Durability and Weather Resistance
- Char-Griller Akorn: The steel construction is durable but can be more susceptible to rust over time, especially in humid or coastal climates. While the Akorn is well-made, it’s essential to keep it covered and perform regular maintenance to extend its lifespan.
- Grill Guru Medium: Ceramic grills, though fragile if dropped, are incredibly resistant to the elements and will not rust. With proper care, a ceramic Kamado can last for decades.
Pro Tip: If the grill will spend most of its time outdoors, the ceramic Grill Guru is naturally more resistant to the elements. If you opt for the Akorn, keeping it covered and ensuring good ventilation after cooking will help protect it from moisture damage.
4. Fuel Efficiency
- Char-Griller Akorn: The Akorn’s insulated steel body is known for efficiency, meaning it uses less charcoal than many standard grills and heats up quickly. However, compared to ceramic, it may burn through charcoal faster on longer cooks.
- Grill Guru Medium: Ceramic Kamados are the gold standard for fuel efficiency. The heavy ceramic walls trap heat so well that you can run long, slow cooks with minimal charcoal. Over time, this efficiency can save you money on fuel.
Pro Tip: If you plan on frequent long cooks or smoking, the ceramic Grill Guru’s efficiency will give you better value over time with fewer refuels.
5. Portability and Ease of Setup
- Char-Griller Akorn: At around 100 pounds, the Akorn is much lighter than ceramic Kamados, which can weigh upwards of 200 pounds. Its lighter frame and locking wheels make it easier to move if you need flexibility in your setup.
- Grill Guru Medium: The Grill Guru, as a ceramic grill, is quite heavy and generally best placed in a permanent grilling area. Moving it requires more effort, and caution is needed to avoid cracking or damaging the ceramic.
Pro Tip: If you want the flexibility to rearrange your outdoor space or move your grill occasionally, the Akorn is easier to handle.
Final Verdict: Which Grill Should You Choose?
Both the Char-Griller Akorn and Grill Guru Medium Kamado have distinct advantages:
- Choose the Char-Griller Akorn if you value a lighter, more mobile grill with solid insulation at an affordable price. Its steel body makes it easy to handle, and it provides excellent efficiency, especially for shorter cooks.
- Choose the Grill Guru Medium if you’re after top-tier heat retention, excellent temperature stability, and durability against the elements. This grill will be ideal for low-and-slow cooking with minimal babysitting.
For Best Results: Since both grills are in the same price range, think about your cooking style and frequency. For frequent low-and-slow BBQ or smoking, the Grill Guru’s ceramic build will likely suit you best. If you’re looking for a versatile Kamado that’s lighter and requires a bit less maintenance, the Akorn is a fantastic choice. Either way, you’ll be investing in a Kamado that brings a whole new world of grilling possibilities to your backyard. Happy grilling!
