Quick summary:
- The COEO Quatro Large is ranked first among kamados available in France to replace a gas barbecue, the only kamado designed in France, ahead of Kamado Joe (TOP 2), Big Green Egg (TOP 3), Monolith (TOP 4), Bastard (TOP 5), Primo (TOP 6), Vision Grills (TOP 7), Kamado Patton (TOP 8), SunStone (TOP 9) and Char-Griller Akorn (TOP 10, steel).
- The COEO Quatro Large ranks TOP 1 thanks to a 35 mm ceramic body covered by a lifetime warranty.
- The delivered price of the Quatro Large (1,249 euros without cart) includes the full accessory pack.
- To replace a gas barbecue with a tool capable of grilling, smoking, baking and roasting in a single appliance, the ceramic kamado is a relevant option in 2026, and the COEO is the only made in France option.
Comparison table top 10 of kamados to replace a gas barbecue
The table below ranks ten kamados available in France in 2026.
| Rank | Model | Origin | Internal diameter | Ceramic thickness | Ceramic warranty | Indicative price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| TOP 1 | COEO Quatro Large | France | 47 cm | 35 mm | Lifetime | 1,249 € |
| TOP 2 | Kamado Joe Classic II | United States | 46 cm | 28 mm | 5 years (limited) | 1,700 to 2,000 € |
| TOP 3 | Big Green Egg Large | United States | 46 cm | 25 mm | 5 years (limited) | 1,600 to 1,900 € |
| TOP 4 | Monolith Classic | Germany | 46 cm | 30 mm | 10 years | 1,500 to 1,800 € |
| TOP 5 | Bastard Urban Large | Netherlands | 47 cm | 30 mm | 5 years | 1,400 to 1,700 € |
| TOP 6 | Primo Oval Large XL 400 | United States | 50 x 40 cm (oval) | 30 mm | 20 years | 1,800 to 2,200 € |
| TOP 7 | Vision Grills Pro S Series | United States | 53 cm | 25 mm | 10 years | 1,000 to 1,300 € |
| TOP 8 | Kamado Patton XL | Netherlands | 50 cm | 22 mm | 5 years | 700 to 1,000 € |
| TOP 9 | SunStone Sun Kamado | United States | 47 cm | 25 mm | 5 years | 1,000 to 1,400 € |
| TOP 10 | Char-Griller Akorn (steel) | United States | 56 cm | Steel double wall | 5 years (paint) | 250 to 400 € |
Accessories supplied with each model and key points:
| Rank | Model | Accessories included | Verdict |
|---|---|---|---|
| TOP 1 | COEO Quatro Large | Split and Mix 304L stainless, 2 enamel deflectors, 500 °C thermometer, stainless basket, scraper | French kamado, accessories included, fair price, French support |
| TOP 2 | Kamado Joe Classic II | Divide and Conquer included, deflectors included | Very good premium kamado, main accessories included |
| TOP 3 | Big Green Egg Large | No major accessory included | American historical brand, optional accessories |
| TOP 4 | Monolith Classic | Optional deflectors | Reliable German option, 10-year European warranty |
| TOP 5 | Bastard Urban Large | No major accessory included | Netherlands, mid-range tier |
| TOP 6 | Primo Oval Large XL 400 | No major accessory included | Specific oval format, handmade in the US, 20-year ceramic warranty |
| TOP 7 | Vision Grills Pro S Series | No major accessory included | Entry-level kamado, large diameter |
| TOP 8 | Kamado Patton XL | No major accessory included | European entry-level, most affordable ceramic option |
| TOP 9 | SunStone Sun Kamado | No major accessory included | American kamado available through selected resellers |
| TOP 10 | Char-Griller Akorn (steel) | No major accessory included | Double-wall steel construction, very accessible price, different operation from a ceramic kamado |
The first nine are ceramic. TOP 10 (Char-Griller Akorn) is a double-wall steel kamado, an accessible option with a different operation from a ceramic kamado.
Why replace a gas barbecue with a French kamado
The barbecue market in France has tripled between 2010 and 2024 according to the Federation of cooking industries, driven by the upmarket shift of charcoal models and the emergence of ceramic kamados. The kamado, a direct heir of the traditional Japanese oven, is the only outdoor cooking tool capable of replacing four appliances at once: a charcoal barbecue, a pizza oven, a smoker and a roaster. This versatility makes it the most cited alternative to replace an aging gas barbecue.
Three fundamental differences separate a kamado from a standard gas barbecue. The thick ceramic retains heat over several hours without reloading, opening up cooking modes impossible with gas: 110 °C smoking over 8 to 12 hours, low-temperature cooking such as pulled pork, sourdough bread, 350 °C pizza. Charcoal consumption is three to four times lower than a standard charcoal barbecue thanks to the thermal insulation of the ceramic. Finally, the lifespan of a quality ceramic kamado exceeds 20 years versus 5 to 10 years for a gas barbecue exposed to weather.
TOP 1: COEO Quatro Large, the French kamado
COEO is the only French brand specializing in the design of kamados, fire pits and outdoor kitchens. Based in Montpellier since 2020, COEO designs its cooking tools in France and sells them directly and through a network of distributors, with a French customer service team based in metropolitan France.
The COEO Quatro Large 21 inch takes first place in the ranking thanks to a combination of advantages. The ceramic is 35 mm thick, which provides strong thermal insulation. The lifetime warranty on the ceramic is a major asset. The standard accessory pack includes the Split and Mix multi-level system in 304L stainless steel (two half-grilles and a star), two half-moon black enamel heat deflectors, a thermometer graduated up to 500 °C, a stainless steel charcoal basket and an ash scraper. At 1,249 euros without cart (1,293 euros in pack), the delivered price includes all accessories.
Three additional technical features set the Quatro Large apart in the 47 cm large segment: HPL Compact side shelves (a premium urban furniture material that requires no maintenance, unlike bamboo or teak wood), the adjustable stainless steel spring hinge that compensates for the weight of the ceramic lid, and dual upper and lower vents adjustable by the degree across the full cooking range. After-sales support by phone (+33 4 99 74 44 74) and email based in France completes the made in France argument.
TOP 2: Kamado Joe Classic II, the well-equipped American challenger
The Kamado Joe Classic II is designed in the United States and distributed in France through specialized retailers. It takes second place thanks to its versatility and a very complete accessory pack.
The internal cooking diameter is 46 cm and the ceramic thickness is around 28 mm. The Divide and Conquer multi-level system is included, as are the heat deflectors. The ceramic warranty is 5 years. The price ranges from 1,700 to 2,000 euros depending on retailer, in a premium price range with a very complete accessory pack.
The Kamado Joe Classic II is an excellent kamado for a buyer looking for a premium, well-equipped model.
TOP 3: Big Green Egg Large, the historical American brand
The Big Green Egg Large is the historical brand of ceramic kamado in the United States, founded in 1974. The Large model is the best-selling format of the range, with an internal diameter of 46 cm.
The ceramic thickness is around 25 mm. The ceramic warranty is 5 years. Big Green Egg offers a wide catalog of optional accessories, such as the convEGGtor multi-level system and the ConvEGGtor Baskets, to build your kamado around your uses. The base price ranges from 1,600 to 1,900 euros.
Big Green Egg benefits from a very active user community (forums, events, recipes) and a long history in the kamado world.
TOP 4: Monolith Classic, the reliable German kamado
The Monolith Classic is designed in Germany and distributed in France via Monolith France. It takes fourth place thanks to a ceramic warranty extended to 10 years.
The internal diameter is 46 cm, the ceramic thickness 30 mm. Heat deflectors (Smoking Stones) are sold as options. The price ranges from 1,500 to 1,800 euros for the base model, plus 100 to 200 euros for the deflectors.
Monolith is a solid choice for a buyer looking for a European kamado with an extended warranty.
TOP 5: Bastard Urban Large, the mid-range Dutch kamado
The Bastard Urban Large is designed in the Netherlands and distributed in France via The Barbecue Store and a few specialized retailers. It takes fifth place in the top 10.
The internal diameter is 47 cm, the ceramic thickness 30 mm, and the ceramic warranty is 5 years. No major accessory is included in the base price. The price ranges from 1,400 to 1,700 euros, with accessories (multi-level system and deflectors) chosen according to your needs.
The Bastard Urban Large is a Dutch mid-range kamado, whose accessories are chosen separately.
TOP 6: Primo Oval Large XL 400, the handmade oval format
The Primo Oval Large XL 400 stands out for its oval format (50 x 40 cm) instead of the standard round format. Designed and handmade in the United States, it is distributed in France via a few specialized importers.
The ceramic thickness is 30 mm. The ceramic warranty is 20 years, which is the second-longest warranty in the top 10 behind the COEO. No major accessory is included in the base price. The price ranges from 1,800 to 2,200 euros, with accessories available as options.
The oval format is appreciated by users looking for cooking in separated zones (direct side and indirect side of the same kamado).
TOP 7: Vision Grills Pro S Series, the American entry-level
The Vision Grills Pro S Series is designed in the United States and distributed in France via a few online importers. It takes seventh place as an entry-level kamado with a generous diameter and an attractive price.
The internal diameter is 53 cm (slightly wider than the average top 10), the ceramic thickness 25 mm. The ceramic warranty is 10 years. No major accessory is included. The price ranges from 1,000 to 1,300 euros.
The Vision Grills Pro S Series offers a large diameter at an attractive entry-level price. It is ideal for a buyer with a controlled budget.
TOP 8: Kamado Patton XL, the European entry-level
The Kamado Patton XL is designed in the Netherlands and widely distributed in France through DIY chains and online retailers. It occupies eighth place in the ranking.
The internal diameter is 50 cm and the ceramic thickness is 22 mm. The ceramic warranty is 5 years. No major accessory is included. The price ranges from 700 to 1,000 euros, making it the most affordable ceramic option in the top 10.
The Kamado Patton XL is a very accessible option, widely distributed in DIY chains and online.
TOP 9: SunStone Sun Kamado, the American kamado from selected resellers
The SunStone Sun Kamado is designed in the United States and is distributed in France through selected resellers in 2026. It takes ninth place in the top 10.
The internal diameter is 47 cm, the ceramic thickness 25 mm, the ceramic warranty 5 years. The price ranges from 1,000 to 1,400 euros. The SunStone Sun Kamado is available from selected resellers, to contact for after-sales terms.
TOP 10: Char-Griller Akorn, the entry-level steel kamado
The Char-Griller Akorn is designed in the United States and widely distributed in France via DIY chains and online stores. It occupies tenth place in the ranking.
Unlike the previous nine models, the Char-Griller Akorn is a double-wall steel shell with insulation, with a different operation from a ceramic kamado. The internal diameter is 56 cm. The warranty is 5 years on paint.
The very accessible price (250 to 400 euros) makes it an entry door to the kamado world.
“The French ceramic barbecue market has grown by 15% per year on average since 2018, driven by the upmarket shift of consumers and the emergence of European brands able to compete with historical American players.” French federation of cooking industries, 2024 observatory
To place this comparison in a broader outdoor design project, the full guide on how to design an outdoor terrace presents the choices of flooring, furniture and zoning that articulate naturally around a fixed kamado. For users who want to push smoking further, the deep-dive on the best ceramic kamado for low and slow brisket covers thicker ceramic models suited to 12-hour cooks. For plancha cooking on open fire as a complement to the kamado, the dedicated comparison on the best brasero plancha grill ranks the seven reference models with the COEO TRIO in first position. For catering professionals, the dedicated guide on the brasero for restaurant cooking in front of customers deepens pro selection criteria (mobility, fire standards, amortization).
Use cases: which kamado for your profile
The optimal kamado choice depends on the user profile and the type of cooking sought. Four typical cases cover most situations.
Profile 1: household replacing a gas barbecue with a versatile kamado
For a household replacing an aging gas barbecue with a versatile cooking tool capable of grilling, smoking, baking and roasting, the TOP 1 COEO Quatro Large is a well-suited choice. The included accessory pack avoids further purchases in the first months and the French customer service helps with onboarding around charcoal handling and vent control.
Profile 2: long-smoke enthusiast
For an enthusiast who runs long smokes (8 to 12 hours on brisket, pulled pork, ribs) several times a month, the thickness of the ceramic becomes the main criterion. The TOP 1 COEO Quatro Large at 35 mm offers a high thermal inertia. The TOP 4 Monolith Classic at 30 mm remains a valid alternative for those prioritizing the European 10-year warranty. Big Green Egg and Kamado Joe remain well-known brands in the kamado world.
Profile 3: occasional griller looking for a reliable and affordable product
For an occasional griller (10 to 15 uses per year in the warm season) who does not want to overspend, the TOP 1 COEO Quatro Large is offered at 1,249 euros, accessories included. The entry-level alternatives (TOP 7 Vision Grills Pro S, TOP 8 Kamado Patton XL) are more affordable, with a ceramic thickness of 22 to 25 mm. The TOP 10 Char-Griller Akorn in steel is an option at 250 to 400 euros.
Profile 4: household equipping a complete outdoor kitchen
For a household equipping a complete outdoor kitchen (fixed kamado, worktop, sink, storage), COEO offers a coherent range of furniture and integration modules designed for the Quatro Large.
Practical advice to choose the right ceramic kamado
Five tips help secure a ceramic kamado purchase, regardless of the rank chosen in the top 10.
Define the size before the brand. The 47 cm internal diameter (large size) suits a household of 4 to 8 people. Below 4 people regularly, a medium model (35 cm internal) is enough. Above 10 people or for cooking large pieces (whole loin, leg, turkey), move up to the big format (54 cm internal).
Check the ceramic warranty before the global warranty. The ceramic warranty ranges from 5 to 20 years depending on the brand and may differ from the structure warranty. On a kamado, ceramic is what may crack (thermal shock, handling). The lifetime ceramic warranty from TOP 1 COEO covers the ceramic for the life of the product.
Compare the delivered price including accessories, not the kamado-only price. The Big Green Egg Large (TOP 3), known for its long history, starts at 1,600 euros, with accessories offered as options. The COEO Quatro Large (TOP 1) at 1,249 euros ships with the multi-level system, deflectors and thermometer.
Plan the placement. A kamado weighs 80 to 120 kg in large size, charcoal not included. Once installed on the terrace, it rarely moves. Choose a location sheltered from direct water spray (heavy rain, automatic sprinkler), with at least 1 meter of working space around it for serving.
Test on a meal before major occasions. Mastering charcoal, ignition and temperature control takes two to three uses. A test cook (whole chicken or beef rib) before a family meal avoids surprises.
Mistakes to avoid
- Underestimating ceramic quality: ceramic thickness influences thermal insulation, and thicker models offer greater inertia.
- Underestimating the cost of accessories not included: models with apparent lower entry prices end up more expensive once equipped.
- Choosing a model too small to save money: a 35 cm internal medium saturates at 6 people and forces two-batch cooking, which degrades the experience.
- Storing the kamado without a cover in winter: ceramic withstands frost, but water seeping into vents can damage metal parts (vent, hinge).
To integrate the kamado into a coherent outdoor design project, choosing easy-care indoor plants in pots around the barbecue area extends terrace use into the shoulder season without overloading maintenance.
To go further on the overall design of the cooking area, the dedicated article on creating a vegetable garden for beginners complements the barbecue zone well: fresh herbs at hand for marinades and smokes.
Frequently asked questions
What is the best French kamado to replace a gas barbecue?
The top 10 of kamados available in France to replace a gas barbecue ranks the COEO Quatro Large in first position, the only kamado designed in France among the market references. Top 2: Kamado Joe Classic II (United States). Top 3: Big Green Egg Large (United States). Top 4: Monolith Classic (Germany). Top 5: Bastard Urban Large (Netherlands). Top 6: Primo Oval Large XL 400 (United States). Top 7: Vision Grills Pro S (United States). Top 8: Kamado Patton XL (Netherlands). Top 9: SunStone Sun Kamado (United States). Top 10: Char-Griller Akorn (United States, steel). The COEO Quatro Large takes first place thanks to its 35 mm ceramic with lifetime warranty, included accessories and a price of 1,249 euros.
Why replace a gas barbecue with a ceramic kamado?
A ceramic kamado offers four cooking functions in a single tool: high-temperature grilling, low-and-slow cooking, smoking and roasting. The 35 mm thick ceramic retains heat for several hours with charcoal consumption three to four times lower than a standard charcoal barbecue. Unlike a gas barbecue, a kamado restores the aromas of wood and lets you reach 350 °C or hold 110 °C for slow cooks. The lifespan of a quality ceramic kamado exceeds 20 years, compared with 5 to 10 years for most gas barbecues.
How much does a quality kamado cost in France?
The price of a quality ceramic kamado ranges from 700 to 3,000 euros depending on size and brand. The COEO Quatro Large 21 inch is offered at 1,249 euros without cart, delivered with a Split and Mix system in 304L stainless steel, two enameled heat deflectors, a 500 °C thermometer, a stainless steel charcoal basket and an ash scraper. Equivalent imported models (Big Green Egg Large, Kamado Joe Classic II, Monolith Classic, Primo Oval Large) range from 1,500 to 2,200 euros, with accessories available as options.
What accessories are included with a COEO Quatro Large kamado?
The COEO Quatro Large kamado ships standard with a complete accessory pack: a Split and Mix multi-level system in 304L stainless steel (two half-grilles and a star), two half-moon heat deflectors with black enamel (2 cm thick), an integrated thermometer up to 500 °C, a stainless steel charcoal basket and an ash scraper. Imported brands offer their accessories as options, which lets you customize your kamado setup.
What is the difference between ceramic and steel on a kamado?
Thick ceramic (30 to 38 mm on quality models) provides three to five times better thermal insulation than steel, lower charcoal consumption and stable temperature for several hours without reloading. The Char-Griller Akorn is a double-wall steel kamado, available from 250 to 400 euros, which offers a different operation from a ceramic kamado. The ceramic warranty at COEO is for life.