Kamado Joe Konnected Joe Review – Grill & Smoke Like a Pro
Introduction
Tired of uneven heat patches ruining your weekend barbecue? Do you dream of a smoker that delivers perfect low-and-slow results without constant babysitting? The Big Joe Konnected Joe(TM) Digital Charcoal Grill & Smoker tackles these common frustrations head-on, offering the versatility of a charcoal grill with the convenience of digital temperature control and integrated connectivity. Say goodbye to burnt edges and inconsistent results—and hello to consistently delicious outdoor cooking.
Overview
The Kamado Joe Konnected Joe(TM) reimagines the traditional kamado grill experience, combining the exceptional heat retention and versatility of a ceramic cooker with modern technology. It’s more than just a grill; it’s a complete outdoor cooking system designed for both serious barbecue enthusiasts and those just starting their grilling journey. Its sleek, black exterior, stainless steel accents, and intuitive digital interface make it a stylish centerpiece for any patio. This grill truly shines for those who want the ability to sear steaks with impressive char while easily transitioning to smoking brisket, ribs, or whole chickens.
Features
Precision Digital Temperature Control: The integrated digital controller and wireless meat probe take the guesswork out of cooking. Set your desired temperature, and the Konnected Joe automatically regulates airflow to maintain it precisely. No more hovering over the grill; focus on entertaining your guests while your meal cooks perfectly.
Versatile Multi-Zone Cooking: The Konnected Joe’s design allows for multiple cooking zones—direct heat for searing and indirect heat for low-and-slow smoking. This allows for incredible versatility: sear steaks and fish, then move them to a cooler zone for finishing, or smoke a full brisket while simultaneously grilling burgers for the kids.
Stainless Steel Cooking Grates: Heavy-duty stainless steel cooking grates provide ample space for grilling and searing and provide long-lasting durability against high temperatures and repeated use.
Durable Ceramic Construction: Kamado Joe’s ceramic construction provides exceptional heat retention, fuel efficiency, and consistent temperatures. This means less charcoal usage and longer cooking times between refills. It also means the grill can quickly reach high temperatures for searing and maintain those temperatures for hours during smoking sessions.
Integrated Wireless Meat Probes & Connectivity: Monitor your food’s internal temperature from anywhere using the free Kamado Joe app. Receive alerts when your meat reaches the desired doneness, and access a library of recipes and cooking guides.
Enhanced Airflow System: The improved airflow system ensures consistent heat distribution and optimal oxygen flow, critical for both searing and smoking. The top damper controls temperature, while the bottom damper provides efficient airflow for fuel combustion.
Benefits
Fuel-Efficient Cooking: Kamado ceramic construction and controlled airflow minimize charcoal consumption, resulting in significant cost savings and extended cooking times between refills.
Effortless Temperature Management: The digital controller eliminates the need for constant adjustments, saving time and effort and allowing even novice grillers to achieve professional-quality results.
Remote Monitoring & Convenience: The wireless meat probes and mobile app allow you to monitor your cooking progress from anywhere, letting you relax and enjoy your time while your food cooks to perfection.
Consistent Meal Results: Precise temperature control and even heat distribution guarantee consistent, restaurant-quality results every time you grill or smoke.
Versatile Cooking Options: From searing steaks to smoking ribs and brisket, the Konnected Joe excels at a wide range of cooking techniques, broadening your culinary horizons.
Usages
Family Barbecues & Gatherings: The large cooking surface and versatile capabilities make it ideal for hosting family barbecues and entertaining guests.
Seafood Searing: The high-heat searing capabilities allow for perfectly seared steaks, salmon, or scallops with beautiful char and a juicy interior.
Low and Slow Brisket Smoking: The Konnected Joe’s ability to maintain consistent low temperatures for extended periods makes it perfect for smoking brisket, ribs, or pork shoulder.
Weeknight Grilled Meals: Quickly reach high temperatures for grilling burgers, chicken, or fish for a fast and easy weeknight dinner.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Precise temperature control & consistent results
- Versatile cooking capabilities – grilling, searing, smoking
- Fuel-efficient operation
- Durable ceramic construction
- Integrated wireless meat probes & app connectivity
- Large cooking surface
Cons
- Ceramic can be fragile & requires careful handling
- Assembly can take a bit of time
- Price point is higher than budget grills
- Heavier than traditional grills, requiring a sturdy base
FAQs
What is the warranty?: Kamado Joe offers a 10-year warranty on the ceramic shell and a 5-year warranty on other components.
Is the grill difficult to assemble?: Assembly is straightforward and can be completed in approximately 60-90 minutes with the included instructions and hardware.
What fuel types are compatible?: The Konnected Joe is designed for use with lump charcoal and charcoal briquettes. Experimenting with wood chunks is encouraged for added flavor during smoking.
How easy is cleaning?: The stainless steel cooking grates are easily removable for cleaning. The ceramic shell requires occasional wiping to remove ash and debris.
How long does the grill retain heat?: Kamado ceramic construction provides exceptional heat retention. Depending on the ambient temperature and desired temperature, the grill can maintain temperatures for 12+ hours on a single load of charcoal.
What’s the cooking capacity?: The Konnected Joe boasts approximately 460 square inches of cooking space, capable of handling large quantities of food.
Product Specifications
| spec12 | Warranty: 10-year ceramic shell, 5-year other components |
| spec13 | Cleaning Requirements: Regular wipe-down, grate cleaning |
| spec10 | Included Accessories: Wireless meat probe, app connectivity |
| spec11 | Wheels/Mobility: Four heavy-duty wheels |
| spec3 | Cooking Area: 460 sq. in. |
| spec4 | Temperature Range: 225°F – 700°F |
| spec5 | Material Type: Ceramic, Stainless Steel |
| spec6 | Fuel Type: Lump Charcoal & Briquettes |
| spec7 | Hopper Capacity: N/A (Ceramic Shell) |
| spec8 | Grate Material: Stainless Steel |
| spec9 | Ignition System: Manual |
| spec1 | Dimensions: 27.5” H x 24” W x 48” D |
| spec2 | Weight: 235 lbs |
Ratings
| rating3-heading | Ease of Use: 4.5 |
| rating4-heading | Durability: 4.8 |
| rating1-heading | Overall Rating: 4.7 |
| rating5-heading | Versatility: 4.6 |
| rating2-heading | Cooking Performance: 4.9 |
Recommendation
The Konnected Joe is perfect for backyard grillers who demand precise temperature control and versatile cooking options. Its digital interface and wireless meat probes make it incredibly easy to use, even for beginners.
This grill is an excellent choice for BBQ enthusiasts who want to achieve professional-quality results without constant babysitting. It’s a significant investment but provides exceptional value in terms of cooking performance, versatility, and durability.
If you’re looking for a grill that can handle everything from searing steaks to smoking brisket, the Konnected Joe is a top contender. It’s a versatile workhorse for any outdoor cooking enthusiast.
Conclusion
The Kamado Joe Konnected Joe(TM) Digital Charcoal Grill & Smoker delivers on its promises, offering a truly remarkable grilling experience. Its combination of traditional kamado design with modern technology makes it a standout choice for both seasoned grillers and those just starting their outdoor cooking journey. While the price point is premium, the exceptional performance, versatility, and durability make it a worthwhile investment for anyone serious about outdoor cooking.
From perfectly seared steaks to succulent smoked brisket, the Konnected Joe consistently delivers restaurant-quality results. Its intuitive digital controls, wireless meat probes, and spacious cooking surface make it a joy to use, and its durable construction ensures years of reliable performance.
