If you’ve ever found yourself staring at a piece of meat, dreaming of that perfect smoky flavor or a steak seared to absolute perfection, you know the struggle is real. My own journey into serious backyard cooking was initially hampered by grills that couldn’t hold a steady temperature or offer the versatility I craved. The frustration of inconsistent results or spending hours babysitting a fire just to achieve decent low-and-slow BBQ can really take the fun out of it. Having a reliable cooking vessel is paramount, otherwise, you’re fighting your equipment instead of focusing on creating delicious food. A truly great grill and smoker would have made those early days far less challenging and much more rewarding.
Before diving into the world of kamado cooking, it’s crucial to understand what these grills offer and if they’re the right fit for your needs. Kamado grills are renowned for their excellent heat retention and versatility, allowing you to grill at high temperatures, smoke low and slow, roast, and even bake like a convection oven. This capability solves the problem of needing multiple cooking appliances for different techniques. The ideal customer for a kamado is someone who values precise temperature control, wants to explore various cooking methods beyond basic grilling, and is willing to learn how to manage airflow for optimal results. They are often passionate about BBQ and achieving authentic smoke flavor.
However, kamados aren’t for everyone. If you’re someone who just wants to flip burgers and hot dogs quickly with minimal effort, a gas grill might be a simpler option. Kamados require more time to heat up and cool down, and mastering temperature control takes some practice. They also use charcoal, which involves managing ash and starting a fire, unlike the instant on/off of gas. Those on a very tight budget might find the initial investment steep compared to basic kettle grills, though there are more affordable options like the one we’ll discuss. If you’re looking for something extremely lightweight and portable, a kamado might not be the best choice either, due to their often heavy construction designed for insulation.
When considering a purchase, think about the size you need (how many people do you typically cook for?), the materials (ceramic vs. steel), the build quality (do seals look robust? Is the cart sturdy?), features like ash removal systems and included accessories (heat deflector, warming rack), and of course, your budget. Temperature control, durability, and versatility should be high on your list of priorities.
- KAMADO CHARCOAL GRILL - Kamado style BBQ Grill & Smoker perfect for both high heat grilling and low and slow cooking
- LARGE COOKING AREA - 20 inch Cooking Diameter with 447 square inch total Cooking Area can cook up to 27 burgers at once
- BEST IN CLASS FEATURES - Triple-Walled Steel Insulated Design, Cast Iron Grates, Locking Lid, 8" Locking Caster Wheels, Removable Warming Rack, Bottom Storage Shelf, and Foldable Side Shelf...
Introducing the Char-Griller AKORN Kamado
Enter the Char-Griller AKORN Kamado E16620. This product is a charcoal grill and smoker built in the distinctive kamado style. It promises incredible versatility, allowing you to perform high-heat searing or low-and-slow smoking with remarkable efficiency. When you purchase the standard package, you typically get the grill body, lid, cart with wheels, side shelves, a warming rack, and cast iron grates. The promise here is kamado performance and versatility without the hefty price tag traditionally associated with ceramic kamados like the Big Green Egg or Kamado Joe, which can cost several times more. While those ceramic units are often seen as the market leaders for their perceived insulation and longevity, the AKORN presents a steel-based alternative designed to deliver similar results at a significantly lower cost.
This specific Char-Griller AKORN is well-suited for the home cook who is serious about grilling and smoking but might not have the budget for premium ceramic models or is looking for a less fragile option. It’s for someone ready to move beyond basic charcoal grilling and explore the full range of BBQ techniques. It might not be ideal for someone seeking absolute heirloom quality or who doesn’t want to invest in understanding airflow management.
Here’s a quick look at the pros and cons based on extended use:
Pros:
* Excellent value for kamado-style cooking performance.
* Remarkably fuel efficient, using less charcoal than traditional grills.
* Versatile: excels at high-heat searing and low-and-slow smoking.
* Lighter and less prone to cracking than ceramic kamados.
* Good temperature control once mastered.
* Easy-to-use ash pan simplifies cleanup.
Cons:
* Built-in lid thermometer is often inaccurate and requires calibration or replacement.
* Steel construction may be more susceptible to rust over long-term exposure if not covered.
* Requires an accessory heat deflector/smoking stone for proper indirect cooking (often sold separately).
* Assembly can reveal minor cosmetic imperfections like small dents.
* Lid seal, while good initially, may require gasket tape over time for optimal performance.
- 811 Square Inches: Includes 443 sq. in. porcelain-enameled steel wire cooking grates, 184 sq. in. chrome-plated warming rack and 184 sq. in. offset smoker
- This Weber kettle grill has space to hold up to 13 burgers made with a Weber burger press; The durable-plated steel cooking grate, crafted from premium steel, offers a resilient surface that stands up...
- Main Smoking Area: 443 sq. in. porcelain-enameled steel wire cooking grates with 184 sq. in. chrome-plated steel wire warming rack offer enough space to cook large cuts of meat.
In-Depth Look at Features & Benefits
After years of putting the Char-Griller AKORN E16620 through its paces, from quick weeknight dinners to all-day weekend smokes, I can confidently speak to its performance. Let’s break down the key features and how they translate into real-world benefits.
Kamado Design and Triple-Walled Insulation
The fundamental benefit of the kamado design is its shape and insulation. The AKORN utilizes a triple-walled steel construction instead of traditional ceramic. This design creates an insulated environment that holds heat incredibly well. For me, this means stability. Once I dial in a temperature, whether it’s a low 225°F for smoking a pork shoulder or a scorching 600°F+ for searing steaks, the grill holds that temperature with minimal fluctuation, even in challenging weather conditions. This efficiency also means less charcoal is needed compared to my old kettle grill. I can often get multiple cooks out of a single load of charcoal, especially for low-and-slow smoking. This insulation is the heart of its kamado capability, allowing for consistent, predictable cooking.
Cooking Versatility and Capacity
The AKORN isn’t just a grill; it’s a multi-functional outdoor cooker. The ability to achieve and hold a wide range of temperatures makes it incredibly versatile.
* Smoking: Low temperatures (225-275°F) are its bread and butter for BBQ. With indirect heat setup (using a deflector stone), I’ve turned out unbelievably moist briskets, fall-off-the-bone ribs, and succulent pulled pork. The stable temperature allows for long cooks without constant tending.
* Grilling: Cranking up the heat for direct grilling gives a fantastic char. Burgers, chicken, and sausages get that classic charcoal flavor and sear.
* Searing: This is where the high heat capability shines. Achieving temperatures well over 500°F allows for perfect searing on steaks or reverse-seared roasts, locking in juices and creating a beautiful crust.
* Roasting/Baking: Using indirect heat, it acts like a convection oven. I’ve roasted whole chickens that come out incredibly juicy with crispy skin, baked pizzas directly on a stone with amazing results, and even done things like roasted vegetables or cobblers.
The 447 square inches of total cooking area (including the warming rack) provides ample space for most family cooks. The 20-inch diameter main grate can handle a good number of burgers or accommodate a large cut of meat like a brisket or multiple racks of ribs (stood upright or using rib racks). The removable warming rack is handy for keeping cooked food warm or cooking items that need less direct heat.
Durable Cast Iron Grates
The primary cooking grate is made of cast iron, and it’s a fantastic feature. Cast iron holds and distributes heat very evenly, which is crucial for getting a great sear and developing fond. Once properly seasoned, they become relatively non-stick and easy to clean. I simply scrape them down after a cook while they’re still hot and occasionally re-season them like a cast iron pan. They contribute significantly to the quality of the food cooked on the Char-Griller AKORN. The main grate also has a removable center section, which can be replaced with various inserts (though these are often sold separately) or allows for easier access to the charcoal basket below to add more fuel or wood chunks during a long cook without removing the entire grate.
Precise Temperature Control with Dampers
Controlling the airflow is the key to managing temperature on any charcoal grill, and the AKORN Kamado offers indexed adjustable dual dampers – one on the bottom and one on the top lid. The bottom damper controls the amount of air feeding the fire, while the top damper controls the amount of hot air (and smoke) exiting the grill. By manipulating these two dampers, you can fine-tune the temperature. For low-and-slow cooking, you restrict both significantly; for high-heat grilling, you open them wide. Learning the sweet spots takes a little trial and error, but the indexed settings help provide repeatability.
One widely acknowledged drawback is the built-in lid thermometer. While it gives you a general idea, it’s often not perfectly accurate, especially for critical low-temperature smoking. For serious cooks, investing in a good digital probe thermometer with probes for both the grill temperature and the meat temperature is highly recommended. This allows for much more precise monitoring and control, leading to better results, especially during unattended cooks. However, the physical dampers themselves offer excellent mechanical control over airflow.
Convenient Ash Management System
Cleaning up ash is one of the less glamorous parts of charcoal grilling, but the AKORN makes it surprisingly easy. It features a removable Easy Dump Ash Pan located at the bottom. After the grill has cooled down, you simply slide out the pan, dump the ash, and slide it back in. This system is far cleaner and more convenient than scooping ash out of the bottom of a kettle grill. Keeping the ash pan clear is important for airflow, especially during long cooks.
Mobility and Design Features
While not as light as a portable grill, the Char-Griller AKORN is mounted on a sturdy cart with 8″ locking caster wheels. This makes it relatively easy to move around on a patio or deck, which is a big plus compared to the stationary nature of many ceramic kamados or lighter, wobbly grills. The locking wheels ensure it stays put when you’re using it. It also includes foldable side shelves, which provide valuable workspace for prepping food or holding tools and sauces, and they fold down for more compact storage. There’s also a bottom storage shelf for holding charcoal bags or accessories. These practical design elements enhance the overall user experience.
Overall, the feature set of the Char-Griller AKORN Kamado Charcoal Grill and Smoker with Cast Iron Grates, Warming Rack and Locking Lid with 445 Cooking Square Inches in Graphite, Model E16620 offers a compelling package. While there are minor points like the thermometer accuracy that might require addressing with accessories, the core performance, efficiency, and versatility delivered by its insulated design, precise dampers, and cast iron grates make it a serious contender for anyone wanting to explore kamado cooking without breaking the bank. My experience over a long period confirms that these features function effectively, enabling a wide range of cooking styles and consistently delivering delicious food.
What Others Are Saying (User Reviews)
I’ve checked various online platforms, and it’s clear that many users are quite pleased with their experience with the AKORN Kamado. Positive feedback frequently highlights the incredible value this grill offers for the price, often comparing its performance favorably to much more expensive ceramic models. Many users praise its excellent ability to hold temperature for long smoking sessions and its versatility for high-heat searing or even baking pizzas. The fuel efficiency is another recurring positive point, with people noting how little charcoal is needed. While some mention the learning curve for temperature control and the inaccuracy of the built-in thermometer (often recommending an aftermarket digital thermometer), the overall sentiment is that it’s a robust, effective, and budget-friendly way to get into kamado-style cooking. Many report achieving fantastic results on a variety of foods.
Final Thoughts on This Grilling Essential
Getting into kamado cooking can seem daunting, especially when faced with the high cost of many models. The core problem for many enthusiasts is accessing that level of temperature control, efficiency, and versatility without making a massive financial commitment. Without a capable grill, you’re limited in the techniques you can attempt, leading to potentially less impressive results and more frustration.
The Char-Griller AKORN Kamado E16620 stands out as a fantastic solution. First, it offers genuine kamado performance – stable temperatures, excellent fuel efficiency, and multi-functional cooking capabilities – at a fraction of the cost of its ceramic counterparts. Second, its steel construction makes it less fragile than ceramic, which is a practical advantage for many. Finally, features like the easy ash removal and sturdy design contribute to a positive user experience. For anyone looking to seriously up their grilling and smoking game without emptying their wallet, this kamado grill is a compelling choice. To see the AKORN for yourself and start your journey into incredible outdoor cooking, Click here to check the product out.
Last update on 2025-09-09 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API