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If you've decided you want a kamado but the standard sizes feel cramped, you're really only choosing between these two. Both fit a whole packer brisket. Both run for 18 hours on a single charcoal load. The differences are in the details.
Quick Verdict
Buy the Kamado Joe Big Joe III ($2,899) if you want the best out-of-the-box experience with the Divide & Conquer system included. Buy the Big Green Egg XL ($1,499) if you want the lower entry price, stronger resale, and the larger accessory ecosystem.
The Contenders
Kamado Joe Big Joe III
$2,899
Cooks who want every modern kamado feature included from day one
Check PriceBig Green Egg XL
$1,499
Buyers who prefer the legendary brand, dealer support, and decades-deep accessory market
Check PriceCategory Breakdown
Cooking Capacity
Winner: Kamado JoeKamado Joe wins narrowly. 604 sq in main grate vs the BGE XL's 452 sq in, plus the included multi-level Divide & Conquer system multiplies that further. The Egg can match it with aftermarket racks, but the KJ has it built in.
Build & Engineering
Winner: Kamado JoeKamado Joe wins. Air-lift hinge, gasket-free SlōRoller, Kontrol Tower top vent, ash drawer. The BGE is bombproof but feels like 1990s design. Both ceramics are equivalent in heat retention.
Cooking Performance
Winner: TieTie. Both hold 225°F for 18+ hours on a load. Both hit 700°F+ for pizza and searing. Both are unbelievably fuel efficient. You will not taste a difference in food off these.
Price & Resale
Winner: BGE XLBGE wins big. $1,400 cheaper at retail and resale value is legendary — used XL Eggs sell for 60-70% of retail years later. Big Joes depreciate faster. If money matters, BGE is the rational call.
Accessory Ecosystem
Winner: BGE XLBGE wins. Decades of third-party accessories from dozens of companies. Every BBQ store stocks Egg accessories. Kamado Joe's ecosystem is solid but mostly first-party.
Final Verdict
Buy the Big Joe III if you want the best modern kamado experience with everything included and don't mind paying for it. Buy the BGE XL if you value resale, lower entry cost, or want the deepest accessory market in the kamado world.
Buying Advice
Local dealer matters more at this price than people realize. Whichever brand has a strong dealer near you is the one to buy — for warranty, accessories, and peace of mind.
