Grill Bill Classic, or a Pro Kamado BBQ after all?

First let's set this straight: in terms of ceramic, thickness and build, our kamado BBQs are identical to each other size for size. No difference in warranty, no difference in quality. So what does differ? The fittings, the finish and a few smart details. That's the difference between Pro III, Pro II and Classic.

Differences between Large (21 inch) and Extra Large (23.5 inch) models

The Pro Large and the Pro XL both come, in Pro II as well as Pro III, with the Divide & Conquer system. That means: 2 half stainless steel grill grates, 2 half cast iron grates, a ring for pan or wok and two half stones for indirect cooking. This lets you work both direct and indirect at the same time on one kamado. Spare ribs low & slow on one side, quickly searing a piece of fish on the other. The Pro III goes a step further: the kamado is physically fixed to the base, there's a handlebar at the back and the Grate Organizer makes swapping grates a lot easier. Small details, but you do notice them.

Differences between Medium (16 inch) and Small (13 inch)

The Medium and Small don't come in a Pro III version. Here you choose between Pro and Classic.

* The Small Pro only comes with a stainless steel grate, no cast iron variant.

Why a fibreglass gasket?

Fibreglass is tough stuff. Where felt sags, tears or simply seals less well over time, fibreglass keeps doing its job. Year after year. The seal fits tighter, heat loss is minimal, and honestly it also looks a lot more robust than a sheet of felt. That price difference for the Pro is partly exactly this. Want to know how to best start up the kamado so that seal can do its job? We explain that in our lighting instructions.

What makes the Pro more expensive, and the Pro III a bit more still?

The matte black colour isn't a lacquer. To get that finish, the kamado goes through the high-temperature kiln process twice, where the Classic only goes through it once. Twice as long, so also more costly. The result is a rougher, deeper surface texture that you simply can't polish shiny with a cloth. The Pro III goes a shade further: ultra matte black, the deepest finish we make.

Besides the colour, with the Pro you're also paying for the extra included accessories, such as the cast iron grates and the charcoal basket. With the Pro III you also get the larger wheels, the attachment to the base, the handlebar and the hinge protection. Not for show, but because they make daily use easier.

What's included as standard?

The M, L and XL models always include a firebox, coal grate, heat deflector, dome thermometer, and top and bottom ventilation. The L and XL get a fire ring, charcoal basket, base on wheels and side tables on top of that. Note: on the Large Pro the Divide & Conquer system replaces the separate heat deflector. That's an upgrade, not an omission.

The Small is more sparsely equipped in that regard: one stainless steel grate, and that's it. No heat deflector, no wheels. Fine for a fixed spot on the patio or to take camping, but for indirect cooking you'll need to buy a separate plate setter.

XL / 23.5 inch Grill Bill kamados

Guideline: up to 12 people. The largest in the range. Suited to anyone who regularly cooks for large groups, or simply wants maximum grilling space, even for the most ambitious low & slow sessions. Check out all Extra Large Kamado BBQs.

L / 21 inch Grill Bill kamados

Guideline: up to 8 people. The most chosen size. No coincidence, since the 21 inch is the sweet spot for anyone who regularly cooks for a group without putting a massive appliance in the garden. Still unsure between Pro III, Pro II and Classic for this size? Then the Pro III is the smartest choice for most people in the long run. Check out all Large Kamado BBQs.

M / 16 inch Grill Bill kamados

Guideline: up to 5 people. More compact, but certainly not limited. The Medium stands on a table base, so no wheels, no side tables. Fine for a fixed spot on the patio. Note: the 32.5 cm grate surface is a lot smaller than the Large. A 3 kilo brisket won't fit on it. Want to run that kind of cook, then take a look at the Large. Check out all Medium Kamado BBQs.

S / 13 inch Grill Bill kamados

Guideline: up to 3 people. The Small is a different category. Not just smaller and otherwise the same, but really its own beast. Ideal for a balcony, camping or as a second kamado alongside your big one. No heat deflector in the box, so for indirect cooking you'll need to get creative or buy a separate plate setter. The coated stainless steel grate is also something to keep in mind when cleaning. Check out all Small Kamado BBQs.