Explore the ultimate Char-Griller AKORN Kamado charcoal grill review for backyard BBQ lovers!

Description

Features

The Char-Griller AKORN Kamado charcoal grill, model E16620, is packed with features that make it a versatile and reliable outdoor cooking companion. Its large cooking area of 445 square inches is perfect for hosting family gatherings or weekend BBQs with friends. I especially appreciated the cast iron grates, which provide excellent heat retention and those coveted grill marks on steaks and burgers. The warming rack is a lifesaver when you’re juggling multiple dishes, keeping cooked items warm while you manage the rest of the meal.

This grill’s locking lid and powder-coated steel finish give it a sturdy and durable feel. With foldable side shelves equipped with tool hooks, I had all my BBQ essentials within arm’s reach. The dual adjustable dampers and built-in thermometer made temperature management a breeze, even for someone like me who isn’t exactly a grill master. The removable ash pan is another standout feature, making cleanup far less painful than I’ve experienced with other grills.

Grilling Performance

Cooking on this Kamado-style charcoal grill felt like stepping up my grilling game entirely. The triple-walled insulation ensures consistent heat, which is critical for achieving both high-temperature searing and low-and-slow smoking. I was able to sear a ribeye to perfection at over 600°F and, just a day later, smoked a rack of ribs at a steady 225°F for hours. The grill’s ability to maintain temperature with minimal charcoal use is nothing short of impressive.

Even heat distribution across the grates helped avoid the dreaded hot spots that can ruin a meal. I’ve used other grills in the past where half the food was charred while the rest barely cooked. This grill? No such issues. Whether it was chicken wings, veggies, or a whole turkey, the results were consistently delicious.

Ease of Use

Grilling with this product felt intuitive right from the start. The assembly took a little over an hour, which might sound daunting, but the instructions were clear, and all parts were well-labeled. Once set up, the indexed adjustable dampers were simple to operate, allowing precise control over airflow and temperature. I’m someone who’s accidentally incinerated food before due to poor temperature management, but this grill helped me avoid those rookie mistakes.

Lighting the charcoal was straightforward, and within 15 minutes, the grill was ready to go. The hinged lid with a handle made it easy to check on food without worrying about where to place a hot lid. I also loved the foldable side shelves—they provided ample space for prep work but folded down neatly for storage when not in use.

Temperature Control

The dual adjustable dampers and built-in thermometer are game changers. Adjusting the airflow was seamless, and I could fine-tune the internal temperature to suit whatever I was cooking. I tested it with both lump charcoal and briquettes, and the results were equally satisfying. The ability to hit and hold specific temperatures for hours at a time made smoking meats a breeze.

That said, I’d recommend investing in a high-quality meat thermometer, as the built-in one is good but not as precise as I’d like for longer cooks. Still, I managed to smoke a brisket for eight hours without significant temperature fluctuations, which speaks volumes about this grill’s design.

Cleaning

Cleaning up after a BBQ can be a nightmare, but not with this grill. The removable ash pan is a stroke of genius. After each use, I simply detached it, dumped the ashes, and gave it a quick rinse. The cast iron grates also cleaned up nicely with just a brush—no scrubbing marathon required. I’ve used grills where leftover grease and ash buildup became a problem, but this one made maintenance surprisingly painless.

However, I did notice that small bits of ash can accumulate between the grill’s walls if you’re not careful during cleanup. It’s not a dealbreaker but something to be mindful of.

Durability

The Char-Griller AKORN Kamado grill feels like it’s built to last. The powder-coated steel body and triple-walled insulation give it a sturdy, rugged feel. Even after multiple uses, there’s no sign of wear or rust. I’ve kept it outside under a grill cover, and it’s held up well against the elements.

Some reviews mention rusting over time, but I suspect this is more about how the grill is maintained and stored. I’d highly recommend investing in a proper cover and storing it in a sheltered area if possible. For its weight, it’s surprisingly easy to move around thanks to the locking caster wheels.

Portability & Storage

At 97 pounds, the grill is hefty but manageable thanks to its sturdy wheels. I’ve moved it across my patio without much trouble, though I wouldn’t recommend lugging it upstairs. The foldable side shelves are a space-saving bonus, especially if you’re like me and lack a sprawling backyard. Once folded, it fits neatly into a corner of my patio.

Warranty

The manufacturer offers a warranty, which provides peace of mind for first-time buyers. While I haven’t had to use it, knowing it’s there adds an extra layer of confidence in the product’s durability and craftsmanship.

Highlights

• Triple-walled insulation retains heat efficiently.
• Large cooking surface accommodates meals for a crowd.
• Foldable side shelves with tool hooks for convenience.
• Removable ash pan simplifies cleanup.
• Excellent temperature control for both high-heat searing and low-and-slow smoking.

Limitations

• Built-in thermometer could be more accurate.
• Small ash bits can accumulate between walls if not cleaned carefully.
• Some reports of rusting over time, though proper maintenance can prevent this.

Competing Products

Comparing the AKORN Kamado to ceramic Kamado grills like the Big Green Egg or Kamado Joe, the biggest advantage here is affordability. While ceramic models offer superior heat retention, they’re also significantly heavier and more expensive. This grill gives you about 80% of a ceramic Kamado’s performance at a fraction of the cost.

Against other steel Kamado grills, the AKORN stands out for its insulated design and efficient charcoal use. Traditional kettle grills like those from Weber are easier to carry but lack the temperature versatility and smoking capabilities of this model.

True Value

For its price, this grill is an incredible investment for anyone who loves outdoor cooking. The combination of features, durability, and performance makes it a standout in its category. While it requires a bit of care and maintenance, the results it delivers are more than worth the effort. If you’ve been considering stepping into the world of Kamado grilling, this product is an excellent place to start.

Additional information