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Kamado Joe Classic III costs $2,099. The Pit Boss K24 costs $799. That's a $1,300 difference for grills that look superficially similar. Is the Kamado Joe actually $1,300 better? Let's find out.
Quick Verdict
The Kamado Joe Classic III is the better kamado by every objective measure. But the Pit Boss K24 at $799 delivers 80% of the performance for 38% of the price. If budget matters, Pit Boss is a genuine option — not a compromise.
The Contenders
Kamado Joe Classic III
$2,099
Buyers who want the best features, build quality, and out-of-box experience in a kamado
Check PricePit Boss K24 Kamado
$799
Budget-conscious buyers who want kamado cooking without the premium price tag
Check PriceCategory Breakdown
Build Quality
Winner: Kamado JoeThe KJ Classic III is precision-engineered — the air lift hinge opens with one finger, the Divide & Conquer system is elegant, and the powder-coated cast iron hardware is premium. The Pit Boss K24 is heavier, the hinge is basic (and can crack ceramics if you're not careful), and the hardware feels utilitarian. Both are solid, but the KJ feels like a luxury product.
Cooking Performance
Winner: TieBoth hold temperature well and deliver excellent results. The KJ's ceramic is slightly more refined, but in blind taste tests, I couldn't consistently tell the difference between food cooked on each. The Pit Boss runs a little less fuel-efficient and takes longer to stabilize, but once it's dialed in, results are comparable.
Features
Winner: Kamado JoeThe KJ includes the Divide & Conquer flexible cooking system, ash tool, and air lift hinge — everything you need to start cooking immediately. The Pit Boss includes basic grates and a simple ash drawer. You'll likely spend $200-300 on accessories to bring the Pit Boss up to KJ functionality.
Value
Winner: Pit BossEven adding $300 in accessories, the Pit Boss totals $1,099 — still $1,000 less than the KJ. For that savings, you give up the air lift hinge, premium hardware, and refined build. But you get 80% of the cooking performance. That's a legitimate value proposition.
Final Verdict
The Kamado Joe Classic III is the better kamado. The Pit Boss K24 is the better deal. If you can afford the KJ, buy it — you'll appreciate the engineering daily. If $2,099 is out of reach, the Pit Boss is a genuine kamado that produces excellent food. Don't let anyone tell you otherwise.
Buying Advice
If you're patient, both go on sale regularly. Kamado Joe during Prime Day and Black Friday ($300-400 off). Pit Boss frequently drops to $599. Waiting for a sale makes both options even more compelling.
