You’ve decided it’s time to upgrade your outdoor cooking game, and you’re leaning toward a kamado grill. But ceramic models can be heavy, fragile, and expensive. That’s where the Char-Griller Akorn steps in, offering kamado-style efficiency with a steel body that’s easier to move and friendlier on your budget. In this guide, we’ll break down two top Akorn models to help you decide which one fits your grilling style. If you’re just starting out, you might also want to check our guide for beginners.
We’ve spent time evaluating both the Char-Griller AKORN 20-Inch and the AKORN Kamado with Cast Iron Grates. Each brings its own strengths to the table, whether you’re a weekend warrior or a dedicated pitmaster. Let’s dive into the comparison.
Pros
- Superior insulation reduces charcoal usage and maintains steady temperatures
- Ample cooking area for its size: enough for a family cookout or small gathering
- Durable cast iron grates retain heat and create beautiful grill marks
- Easy ash removal system simplifies post-cook maintenance
- Foldable side shelves save storage space when not in use
Cons
- Heavy at 90 pounds, making it difficult to move without planning
- No cover included; an aftermarket cover is recommended for weather protection
- Temperature gauge may require recalibration or an upgrade for precision smoking
The Char-Griller Akorn 20-Inch Kamado Charcoal Grill and Smoker offers kamado-style cooking at a fraction of the cost of ceramic models. Its triple-wall insulation keeps heat inside, so you use less charcoal while maintaining steady temperatures for hours. This makes it an ideal choice for beginners who want to explore low-and-slow smoking or hot searing without a steep learning curve.
Standout features include a cast iron cooking surface that covers 306 square inches, plus a 165-square-inch warm rack. That’s enough room for 23 burgers or a full brisket. The EasyDump ash pan slides out for effortless cleanup, and the locking lid with a heat gauge gives you control over heat levels. The twin folding wooden shelves add work space and can be tucked away when not needed.
Build quality is solid: the steel cart is powder-coated black and rides on large rubber wheels for stability. Weighing 90 pounds, the grill is sturdy but not meant for constant relocation. The double-wall steel body provides insulation comparable to thick ceramic, but it’s more durable and less prone to cracking if dropped. Folding shelves are a nice touch for patios with limited room.
The main drawbacks are its weight and the absence of a weather cover. The included temperature gauge works adequately but may not be as precise as an aftermarket digital probe for long smokes. Also, raw beginners should expect a short learning curve to master airflow adjustments for consistent temps, though the Akorn’s insulation helps compensate.
Overall, the Char-Griller Akorn delivers exceptional value for a kamado grill. It combines efficient insulation, large cooking space, and easy maintenance in a rugged steel form. If you want the flavor of charcoal smoking without spending over a thousand dollars, this is a smart investment for backyard grilling and smoking alike.
Color: Black
Size: Full Size (20-inch diameter)
Dimensions: 45.2 x 31.3 x 47.4 inches
Weight: 90 pounds
Grill Material: Steel with triple-wall insulation
Cooking Surface: 306 sq in plus 165 sq in warm rack (445 sq in total)
Fuel Type: Charcoal
Special Features: Locking lid, folding wood shelves, EasyDump ash pan, built-in heat gauge, tubular steel cart with rubber wheels
Pros
- Excellent heat retention and fuel efficiency thanks to triple-wall insulation
- Versatile enough for high heat searing and low and slow smoking
- Large cooking capacity with 20 inch diameter and 447 total square inches
- Durable construction with cast iron grates and locking lid for safety
- Easy temperature control with indexed dual dampers and thermometer
Cons
- Heavy at 97 pounds, may require two people for assembly or moving
- Cover and smoking stone sold separately, adding to initial cost
- Learning curve for precise temperature control, especially for beginners
The Char-Griller AKORN Kamado Charcoal Grill and Smoker brings kamado style cooking to a wider audience with its affordable price and feature rich design. It is perfect for backyard enthusiasts who want the versatility of a grill and smoker without breaking the bank. The triple-walled steel insulation ensures consistent temperatures even in cold or windy conditions.
Standout features include the 447 square inch cooking area with cast iron grates that hold heat exceptionally well for perfect searing. The locking lid and locking caster wheels add safety and stability, while the adjustable dual dampers give you fine control over airflow for both high heat grilling and low and slow smoking. The removable ash pan makes cleanup simple.
Build quality is solid for the price point, though the grill is heavy at 97 pounds. The foldable side shelf with tool hooks is a nice touch for organization. However, the cover and smoking stone are sold separately, which may be a minor inconvenience for some buyers.
Potential drawbacks include the weight, which can make moving it a two person job, and the learning curve for mastering temperature control on a kamado. Beginners may need a few cooks to get the hang of it. Overall, the AKORN delivers excellent performance and value for its class.
Verdict: The Char-Griller AKORN Kamado is a top choice for budget conscious grillers who want kamado versatility. It offers great heat retention, ample cooking space, and thoughtful features. While it has a few minor trade offs, it is a reliable workhorse for smoking and grilling alike.
Buying Guide: What to Look for in a Char-Griller Akorn
Choosing between the two Akorn models comes down to a few key factors. Here’s what we consider most important when evaluating these kamado grills.
Cooking Area and Capacity
The total cooking space matters if you often feed a crowd. The 20-Inch model offers 306 square inches on the main grate plus a 165-square-inch warming rack, which is plenty for a couple of racks of ribs or a large chicken. The other model bumps that up to 447 square inches total, letting you cook up to 27 burgers at once.
If you regularly host backyard parties, the larger capacity of the AKORN with Cast Iron Grates might be worth the extra footprint. For smaller households, the 20-Inch version is more than adequate.
Insulation and Heat Retention
Both models feature triple-wall steel insulation, which is the heart of the Akorn’s performance. This design locks in heat and reduces charcoal consumption, allowing you to maintain steady low temperatures for smoking or crank it up for searing. The insulated body also means the exterior stays cooler to the touch, which is a safety bonus.
We’ve found that the insulation on both models performs similarly, so you won’t sacrifice efficiency by choosing one over the other. If you’re comparing to ceramic kamados, check our ceramic kamado guide to see the differences.
Ease of Use and Cleaning
Kamado grills can be finicky, but the Akorn simplifies things with adjustable dampers and a built-in thermometer. The EasyDump ash pan is a standout feature, making cleanup quick and painless. No more wrestling with a heavy ash bucket; just slide out the pan and dump it.
Both models come with locking lids and folding side shelves, which add convenience. The larger model also includes locking caster wheels, which is a nice touch for stability on uneven ground.
Build Quality and Durability
Steel construction means these grills are lighter and more rust-resistant than ceramic, but they still need proper care. The cast iron grates on the larger model are heavy-duty and retain heat beautifully, while the 20-Inch version also features cast iron cooking surfaces. Both are built to last, but the cast iron grates might appeal to those who want that extra searing power.
If you’re on a tight budget, you might want to see our best kamado under $500 list, which includes these models. And for value picks, our money-focused guide has more insights.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between the two Char-Griller Akorn models?
The main differences are cooking area and a few convenience features. The AKORN 20-Inch offers 306 square inches of primary cooking space, while the AKORN with Cast Iron Grates provides 447 square inches total. The larger model also includes locking caster wheels and a removable warming rack, which some users prefer.
Can I use a Char-Griller Akorn for smoking?
Absolutely. The Akorn’s insulated design and adjustable dampers make it excellent for low-and-slow smoking. You can maintain temperatures around 225°F for hours without needing to add charcoal frequently. For more tips, check out our best kamado grills roundup.
How many burgers can I cook on an Akorn at once?
The 20-Inch model can hold up to 23 burgers on its cast iron grates, while the larger version with 447 square inches can handle up to 27 burgers. That’s plenty for a big cookout.
Is the Akorn better than a ceramic kamado grill?
It depends on your priorities. The Akorn is lighter, more affordable, and easier to move, but ceramic kamados excel at heat retention and moisture control. If you’re curious about the differences, our ceramic kamado guide explains it well.
Final Thoughts
Both Char-Griller Akorn models deliver impressive kamado performance without the ceramic price tag. If you want the largest cooking area and cast iron grates, go with the Char-Griller® AKORN® Kamado Charcoal Grill. For a slightly more compact option that still excels at grilling and smoking, the Char-Griller® AKORN® 20-Inch Kamado Charcoal Grill is a fantastic choice. Whichever you pick, you’re getting a versatile, efficient grill that will elevate your outdoor cooking.
