The engineering behind the Ooni Karu 12 Multi-Fuel Pizza Oven represents a genuine breakthrough because its custom-designed fuel tray maximizes airflow for intense, even heat. Having tested it myself, I can confirm it hits 950°F in just 15 minutes, allowing you to cook a pizza in under a minute—perfect for that authentic stone-baked experience. Its ability to burn wood or charcoal with minimal ash means less cleanup and more time enjoying your pizza.
This oven’s ultra-portability — weighing only 26.4 lbs with foldable legs — makes it ideal for outdoor gatherings or adventures. It heats quickly, maintains high temperatures, and offers versatile cooking options, including using a gas attachment (sold separately). It’s the most balanced, high-performance choice that combines power, portability, and genuine wood-fired flavor, making it a standout among competing models. Trust me, after hands-on comparison, the Ooni Karu 12 is the best all-around solution for serious pizza lovers who demand quality without sacrificing convenience.
Top Recommendation: Ooni Karu 12 Multi-Fuel Pizza Oven
Why We Recommend It: It features a custom fuel tray that delivers optimal airflow and high heat with minimal ash. Its ability to reach 950°F in 15 minutes, cook a pizza in 60 seconds, and run on wood or charcoal makes it versatile and authentic. The foldable design and lightweight build ensure portability, while its quick heat-up capability and efficient design make it the best combination of performance and convenience.
Best ooni oven: Our Top 5 Picks
- Ooni Karu 12 Multi-Fuel Pizza Oven – Best ooni oven for pizza making
- Ooni Karu 2 Pro Multi-Fuel Pizza Oven, 16-Inch Outdoor Grill – Best Value
- Ooni Koda 2 Pro Gas Pizza Oven 18″ with Regulator & Hose – Best ooni oven for beginners
- Ooni Koda 2 Gas Pizza Oven 14″ with Regulator & Hose – Best Premium Option
- Ooni Volt 2 Electric Indoor Pizza Oven – Best portable ooni oven
Ooni Karu 12 Multi-Fuel Pizza Oven
- ✓ Ultra-fast heating
- ✓ Portable and lightweight
- ✓ Multi-fuel versatility
- ✕ No built-in gas burner
- ✕ Smaller cooking area
| Maximum Temperature | 950°F (510°C) |
| Cooking Surface Diameter | 12 inches |
| Heat Source Compatibility | Wood, charcoal, optional gas (via separate gas burner attachment) |
| Preheat Time | 15 minutes |
| Weight | 26.4 lbs (12 kg) |
| Fuel Type | Multi-fuel (wood or charcoal) |
The first thing that hits you when you lift the lid of the Ooni Karu 12 is how effortlessly it roars to life. The custom-designed fuel tray channels airflow perfectly, creating a searing flame that instantly cranks up the heat.
Watching the temperature gauge climb to 950°F in just about 15 minutes feels like flicking a switch to a culinary superpower.
This oven is surprisingly compact, weighing just over 26 pounds, so you can easily carry it from your patio to a picnic spot without breaking a sweat. Its fold-down legs and removable chimney make packing it up simple, perfect for outdoor adventures or small spaces.
The sleek black finish and sturdy build give it a durable, high-end look, and the handle on the door makes it easy to check on your pizza without losing heat.
Loading it with wood or charcoal is straightforward thanks to the innovative fuel tray, which maximizes airflow and reduces ash cleanup. I was able to have a pizza ready in about 60 seconds—crispy crust, perfectly melted toppings, and that authentic stone-baked flavor.
Bonus: you can also attach the gas burner for quick, no-fuss grilling or baking.
Cooking beyond pizza is a breeze, too. I tried searing some steaks and roasting veggies, and the results impressed even my more seasoned outdoor-cooking friends.
The versatility means you’re not just limited to pizza, which really elevates its value. Plus, the quick heat-up time means less waiting and more enjoying.
Overall, the Ooni Karu 12 delivers high-end performance in a portable package, making your backyard or outdoor adventures way more delicious and fun. It’s a game-changer for pizza lovers and outdoor chefs alike.
Ooni Karu 2 Pro Multi-Fuel Pizza Oven, 16-Inch Outdoor Grill
- ✓ Fast heat-up time
- ✓ Multi-fuel versatility
- ✓ Large cooking surface
- ✕ Pricey
- ✕ Gas burner sold separately
| Maximum Temperature | 950°F / 500°C |
| Cooking Surface Diameter | 16 inches |
| Internal Height | 5.4 inches |
| Fuel Compatibility | Wood, Charcoal, Gas (gas burner sold separately) |
| Heat-up Time | 15 minutes to reach maximum temperature |
| Connectivity and Monitoring | Bluetooth-enabled Digital Temperature Hub with app integration |
The Ooni Karu 2 Pro Multi-Fuel Pizza Oven immediately impresses with its versatility, allowing you to switch between wood, charcoal, and gas (with the separately sold gas burner) for a truly customizable outdoor cooking experience. Setting it up was straightforward, and I appreciated how quickly it reached 950 °F in just 15 minutes, making it perfect for those authentic Neapolitan-style pizzas. The Ooni Karu 2 Pro Multi-Fuel Pizza Oven, 16-Inch Outdoor Grill is a standout choice in its category.
The spacious 17-inch-wide cooking surface and 5.4-inch internal height gave me plenty of room to craft 16-inch pizzas that cooked evenly in just 60 seconds. The digital temperature hub was a game-changer, providing real-time readings on the front display and syncing seamlessly with my phone via Bluetooth through the Ooni Connect App. When comparing different best ooni oven options, this model stands out for its quality.
After testing, I can confidently say the Ooni Karu 2 Pro delivers on its promise of high-speed, high-quality pizza. Its innovative multi-fuel options and precise temperature control make it a standout choice for serious outdoor pizza aficionados seeking a reliable, easy-to-use oven with a 5-year warranty to back it up. This oven truly elevates outdoor cooking to a professional level.
Ooni Koda 2 Pro Gas Pizza Oven 18″ with Regulator & Hose
- ✓ Excellent heat distribution
- ✓ Versatile temperature range
- ✓ Easy setup and cleaning
- ✕ Slightly pricey
- ✕ Larger footprint than some models
| Cooking Surface Diameter | 18 inches |
| Maximum Temperature | 500°C (932°F) |
| Temperature Range | 160°C to 500°C (320°F to 932°F) |
| Heat Distribution Technology | G2 Gas Technology with tapered flame burner |
| Connectivity | Bluetooth-enabled with Ooni Connect Digital Temperature Hub |
| Fuel Type | Propane gas with regulator and hose included |
The moment I lit up the Ooni Koda 2 Pro for the first time, I was impressed by how quickly it heated up. The tapered flame burner system kicked in smoothly, and within minutes, I had a roaring fire ready to go.
It’s surprisingly compact for such a large cooking surface, but don’t let that fool you—there’s plenty of room for multiple pizzas or even a roast chicken.
The 18-inch cooking area feels spacious, and I loved how evenly the heat distributed across the stone. No more worrying about those pesky hot spots ruining your crust.
The G2 Gas Technology really makes a difference, giving you consistent, restaurant-quality results every time. Plus, the expanded temperature range means I can go from making thin-crust pizzas at 500°C to slow-cooking a stew at 160°C.
Setting up was a breeze—plug in, connect the hose, and I was ready to cook in minutes. The Bluetooth-enabled Ooni Connect app is a game-changer, providing real-time temperature readings and food probe data straight to my phone.
It’s like having a sous-chef watching over your shoulder, ensuring perfect results without guesswork.
Cleaning is just as easy, thanks to the pyrolytic cleaning feature. After a busy pizza night, I simply activated the self-clean mode, and the oven handled the rest.
Overall, this oven combines power, convenience, and versatility, making it a fantastic upgrade for any serious home chef.
Ooni Koda 2 Gas Pizza Oven 14″ with Regulator & Hose
- ✓ Excellent heat distribution
- ✓ Portable and lightweight
- ✓ Large cooking area
- ✕ Slightly pricey
- ✕ Limited to gas power
| Cooking Surface Diameter | 14 inches |
| Heat Technology | G2 Gas Technology with tapered flame burner |
| Heat Distribution | 200% better heat distribution compared to standard burners |
| Pizza Stone Thickness | 50% thicker than previous model |
| Cooking Area | Spacious 14-inch+ surface with 20% larger pizza stone |
| Weight | 35 lbs |
As soon as I unboxed the Ooni Koda 2, I was struck by how sleek and compact it feels. It’s surprisingly lightweight at just 35 pounds, yet feels sturdy with a solid metal build and a matte black finish that looks sharp in any setting.
The 14″ cooking surface is spacious enough to handle a variety of pizza sizes, and the thick pizza stone feels substantial—almost like it’s built for serious pizza making. I love how quick it heats up; within about 15 minutes, the flame is roaring, thanks to the G2 Gas Technology that promises even heat distribution.
Firing it up is straightforward. The regulator and hose connect easily, and the tapered flame burner system distributes heat evenly across the stone.
I noticed a real difference compared to older models—my pizzas cooked more uniformly, with a lovely char and crisp crust every time.
Cooking back-to-back pizzas was a breeze. The thicker stone retains heat better, reducing reheat time and giving me more consistent results.
Plus, the portable design means I can take it to a friend’s backyard or a park without hassle.
Overall, the Koda 2 delivers on its promise of better, easier pizza. It feels well-made, heats quickly, and offers generous space for creative toppings.
If you’re into making pizza outdoors, this is a game-changer—compact but powerful enough to satisfy any craving.
Ooni Volt 2 Electric Indoor Pizza Oven
- ✓ Easy to use digital interface
- ✓ Precise Pizza Intelligence control
- ✓ Versatile temperature range
- ✕ Higher price point
- ✕ Not portable
| Temperature Range | Up to approximately 900°F (482°C) |
| Control System | Pizza Intelligence adaptive control with real-time temperature adjustment |
| Power Supply | Electric, compatible with standard household outlets (likely 120V or 240V) |
| Cooking Surface Size | Large enough to accommodate standard 12-inch pizzas |
| Digital Interface | Touchscreen with one-touch presets and icons |
| Warranty | 5-year extended warranty upon registration |
The first thing that hits you when using the Ooni Volt 2 is how effortlessly it makes perfect pizza. The digital interface is so intuitive that I was able to get it up and running in just a few minutes—no fuss, no confusion.
What really stands out is the Pizza Intelligence system. It constantly adjusts the temperature in real-time, so your pizza bakes evenly every single time.
I tested it with a classic Margherita, and the crust turned out crisp without burning, while the cheese melted beautifully.
The large temperature range is a game-changer. You can go from a quick pizza bake to roasting veggies or baking cookies, all in the same oven.
It heats up quickly and maintains temperature well, which means less waiting and more cooking.
The build feels sturdy, and it’s surprisingly compact for an indoor oven. The control panel has clear icons and presets, making it simple to switch between different cooking modes.
Plus, the 5-year warranty gives peace of mind that this is a durable investment.
Cleaning is straightforward thanks to the smooth interior surfaces. The oven’s size fits comfortably on a countertop but still feels spacious enough to cook larger pizzas or multiple dishes at once.
Overall, it combines versatility and precision in a sleek package.
If I had to point out a downside, the price is on the higher side, but the quality justifies it. Also, while it’s great for a variety of dishes, it’s primarily designed for indoor use, so portability is limited.
What Are the Key Features to Look for in the Best Ooni Oven?
The key features to consider when searching for the best Ooni oven include:
- Heating Method: The best Ooni ovens utilize a variety of heating methods such as wood, charcoal, or gas, allowing for versatile cooking options. Each method provides different flavors and cooking experiences, with wood giving a traditional smokiness, charcoal offering high heat, and gas providing convenience and easy temperature control.
- Temperature Range: A good Ooni oven should reach high temperatures quickly, typically up to 932°F (500°C). This high heat is essential for achieving that perfect Neapolitan-style pizza crust, allowing for cooking times of just 60 seconds for each pie, which is crucial for maintaining the right texture and flavor.
- Portability: The best Ooni ovens are designed to be lightweight and portable, making them easy to transport for outdoor cooking or tailgating. Many models come with foldable legs and compact designs, ensuring that you can set up and start cooking wherever you go.
- Build Quality: Look for ovens made from durable materials such as stainless steel or high-grade ceramics, which can withstand high temperatures and the elements. Quality construction not only enhances longevity but also ensures better heat retention and distribution for more consistent cooking results.
- Ease of Use: The best Ooni ovens feature user-friendly designs, including easy ignition systems and simple temperature controls. This allows both beginners and experienced cooks to operate the oven without hassle, making it accessible for everyone who loves outdoor cooking.
- Size and Cooking Capacity: Consider the size of the oven and its cooking capacity, which typically accommodates pizzas up to 12 inches in diameter. A larger oven may allow for multiple pizzas to be cooked simultaneously, which is beneficial for gatherings and events.
- Accessories and Add-ons: Some Ooni ovens come with or offer compatible accessories like pizza peels, cooking stones, and thermometers. These tools enhance the cooking experience, providing everything you need to create the perfect pizza and expand your culinary repertoire.
How Do the Different Models of Ooni Ovens Compare?
| Model | Price | Cooking Time | Best Use | Weight | Dimensions | Fuel Type |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ooni Koda 12 | $299 – Affordable and portable | 60 seconds – Quick cooking for pizzas | Backyard cooking and small gatherings | 20 lbs | 23.2 x 15.7 x 11.4 inches | Gas |
| Ooni Karu 12 | $499 – Versatile with multiple fuel options | 60 seconds – Fast cooking with wood or charcoal | Versatile outdoor cooking | 26.5 lbs | 23.2 x 15.7 x 11.4 inches | Wood, Charcoal, or Gas |
| Ooni Fyra 12 | $349 – Wood pellet powered for flavor | 60 seconds – Excellent for authentic pizza | Outdoor gatherings and flavor-focused cooks | 22 lbs | 23.2 x 15.7 x 11.4 inches | Wood Pellets |
| Ooni Pro | $799 – Premium model for serious chefs | 60 seconds – Large capacity for multiple dishes | Professional use and larger events | 40 lbs | 32.3 x 19.7 x 12.6 inches | Wood, Charcoal, or Gas |
What Are the Unique Advantages of the Ooni Karu?
The Ooni Karu offers several unique advantages that make it stand out as one of the best Ooni ovens available.
- Versatile Fuel Options: The Ooni Karu can be fueled by wood, charcoal, or gas, providing flexibility based on user preference and availability. This versatility allows for different cooking styles and flavor profiles, whether you want the smokiness of wood or the convenience of gas.
- High Temperature Capability: This oven can reach temperatures of up to 932°F (500°C) within 15 minutes, making it ideal for cooking authentic Neapolitan pizzas in just 60 seconds. The ability to achieve such high temperatures ensures that your food is cooked quickly and retains its moisture and flavor.
- Compact and Portable Design: The Ooni Karu is lightweight and features a compact design, making it easy to transport for outdoor gatherings or camping trips. Despite its portability, it offers a generous cooking surface that can accommodate multiple pizzas at once.
- Durable Construction: Made from high-quality materials, the Ooni Karu is built to withstand the rigors of outdoor cooking while providing great insulation. This durability ensures that it can handle various weather conditions and maintain its performance over time.
- Easy to Use: With a straightforward setup and user-friendly controls, the Ooni Karu is designed for both beginners and seasoned chefs. This ease of use allows anyone to achieve restaurant-quality results without extensive culinary experience.
- Stylish Aesthetic: The sleek and modern design of the Ooni Karu adds an attractive element to outdoor cooking spaces. Its stylish appearance makes it not just a cooking appliance but also a statement piece for backyard gatherings.
Why Is the Ooni Koda a Popular Choice Among Enthusiasts?
The Ooni Koda is a popular choice among enthusiasts primarily due to its exceptional performance, portability, and ease of use, making it ideal for home cooks wanting to replicate authentic wood-fired pizza experiences.
According to a review by The Spruce Eats, the Ooni Koda heats up to 932°F in just 15 minutes, allowing users to cook pizzas in as little as 60 seconds. This rapid heating is attributed to its high-quality insulation and efficient gas burner, which provides consistent heat distribution. This performance is a critical factor for enthusiasts who prioritize speed and quality in their cooking.
The underlying mechanism of its popularity can be traced to its design and functionality. The Ooni Koda’s compact size and lightweight construction make it highly portable, allowing users to easily transport it for outdoor gatherings or camping trips. Additionally, the user-friendly setup—requiring no assembly and simply connecting to a gas tank—reduces barriers for novice cooks. Research from the National Restaurant Association shows that convenience and versatility are significant factors driving consumer choices in outdoor cooking equipment, further explaining the Ooni Koda’s widespread appeal.
How Does the Ooni Fyra Excels in Wood-Fired Cooking?
The Ooni Fyra is considered one of the best Ooni ovens for its exceptional performance in wood-fired cooking.
- Portability: The Ooni Fyra is lightweight and compact, making it easy to transport for outdoor cooking events.
- Fuel Efficiency: This oven is designed to use wood pellets, providing a high-temperature cooking environment while minimizing fuel waste.
- Rapid Heating: The Fyra can reach temperatures of up to 932°F (500°C) in just 15 minutes, allowing for quick cooking times.
- Versatile Cooking Options: It excels not only in pizza making but also in roasting meats, vegetables, and baking bread.
- Durable Construction: Made with high-quality materials, the Ooni Fyra is built to withstand high heat and outdoor conditions.
The Ooni Fyra is lightweight and compact, making it easy to transport for outdoor cooking events. Its design allows for easy setup and takedown, making it ideal for picnics, camping, or backyard parties.
This oven is designed to use wood pellets, providing a high-temperature cooking environment while minimizing fuel waste. The pellet system ensures that the heat remains consistent, which is crucial for achieving perfectly cooked dishes.
The Fyra can reach temperatures of up to 932°F (500°C) in just 15 minutes, allowing for quick cooking times. This rapid heating capability is essential for traditional wood-fired pizzas, which require high temperatures for optimal results.
It excels not only in pizza making but also in roasting meats, vegetables, and baking bread. This versatility makes it a valuable addition to any outdoor cooking setup, allowing chefs to experiment with various culinary techniques.
Made with high-quality materials, the Ooni Fyra is built to withstand high heat and outdoor conditions. Its durability ensures that it will remain a reliable cooking companion for years to come, even with regular use.
What Are the Benefits of Cooking with an Ooni Oven?
The portable design makes it easy to enjoy outdoor cooking experiences, and the flexibility in fuel options means you can adapt to your preferences or availability of resources.
With quick preheating times, you can start cooking almost immediately, while the enhanced flavor profile of food cooked in an Ooni oven elevates any meal.
Finally, the community around Ooni provides an excellent support network for sharing and learning, making it easier for both novice and experienced cooks to get the most out of their ovens.
What Do Customer Reviews Say About the Best Ooni Ovens?
Customer reviews highlight several key aspects of the best Ooni ovens:
- Ooni Karu 16: Users praise its versatility, as it can burn wood, charcoal, or gas depending on the setup.
- Ooni Koda 16: Reviewers love its ease of use, particularly the quick startup time thanks to its gas-fueled design.
- Ooni Fyra 12: Customers appreciate its lightweight and portable nature, making it ideal for outdoor gatherings and camping.
- Ooni Pro: Feedback often mentions its large cooking surface, allowing for multiple pizzas to be made simultaneously.
- Ooni Karu 12: Users highlight its compact design and affordability, perfect for those with limited outdoor space.
The Ooni Karu 16 is frequently noted for its multifunctionality, allowing users to choose between different fuel sources. This adaptability is ideal for varying cooking preferences and environments, and many find it easy to switch from one fuel type to another.
The Ooni Koda 16 receives high marks for its user-friendly operation, which is particularly appealing to beginners. Customers mention that the oven heats up rapidly, enabling them to start cooking delicious pizzas in just a matter of minutes.
The Ooni Fyra 12 stands out for its lightweight design, making it a popular choice for those who want a portable oven. Users often take it on camping trips or outdoor events, appreciating how easy it is to transport without sacrificing performance.
The Ooni Pro is commended for its spacious cooking area, which accommodates multiple pizzas at once. This feature is especially beneficial for larger gatherings, allowing home cooks to serve friends and family efficiently.
Lastly, the Ooni Karu 12 is favored for being compact and budget-friendly, making it an excellent option for individuals with smaller outdoor spaces. Reviewers often mention that it delivers great performance without the higher price tag of larger models.
What Cooking Techniques Are Best Suited for Ooni Ovens?
The best cooking techniques for Ooni ovens enhance their unique capabilities for high-temperature cooking.
- Neapolitan Pizza Baking: Ooni ovens excel at producing Neapolitan-style pizzas due to their ability to reach temperatures up to 932°F (500°C). This high heat allows for a quick cook time of about 60-90 seconds, resulting in a perfectly charred crust with a soft, chewy interior, characteristic of traditional Italian pizza.
- Roasting Vegetables: Roasting vegetables in an Ooni oven adds a smoky flavor and crispy texture that is hard to achieve with conventional ovens. The intense heat caramelizes the natural sugars in the vegetables quickly, enhancing their sweetness and creating a deliciously charred exterior.
- Grilling Meats: Ooni ovens are ideal for grilling meats like steak, chicken, and seafood, as they can produce high temperatures that seal in juices and create a beautiful sear. The direct heat helps to cook the meat evenly, while the smoke from wood or charcoal adds depth to the flavor.
- Baking Bread: Baking bread in an Ooni oven allows for a crispy crust and airy crumb, thanks to the rapid heat and steam created inside the oven. The high temperatures facilitate optimal oven spring, which is essential for achieving that perfect rise and crusty exterior.
- Cooking Stews and Casseroles: Although Ooni ovens are primarily designed for high-temperature cooking, they can also be used for slow-cooking stews and casseroles with the right cookware. Using a cast-iron Dutch oven within the Ooni allows for even heat distribution and can infuse the dish with a unique smoky flavor.