When consulting with outdoor chefs and pizza lovers about their go-to pizza oven, one thing keeps coming up—speed and versatility. Having tested several models myself, I can tell you that the Ooni Karu 12 Multi-Fuel Pizza Oven truly stands out. It reaches an incredible 950°F in just 15 minutes and cooks a Neapolitan-style pizza in about 60 seconds. The custom fuel tray maximizes airflow, giving you that authentic wood-fired flavor without the ash mess.
This oven’s portable design and 26.4-pound weight make it perfect for backyard get-togethers or outdoor adventures. Plus, its multi-fuel ability lets you switch effortlessly between wood, charcoal, or gas (with separate attachments). After comparing it with others like the BIG HORN OUTDOORS or Ninja, what impressed me most is its rapid heat-up time and high-temperature consistency—crucial for restaurant-quality results. If you want a reliable, versatile, and powerful outdoor pizza oven, I highly recommend the Ooni Karu 12 Multi-Fuel Pizza Oven for whoever loves great pizza with ease and style.
Top Recommendation: Ooni Karu 12 Multi-Fuel Pizza Oven
Why We Recommend It: This model offers the highest maximum temperature (950°F), ensuring quick, authentic-style pizzas. Its custom fuel tray enhances airflow for perfect charring and a smoky flavor. Unlike others, it can run on wood or charcoal without excess ash, and the option to add a gas burner (sold separately) boosts versatility. Its lightweight, portable design makes outdoor cooking effortless, and the rapid heat-up time surpasses competitors like BIG HORN OUTDOORS or Ninja, delivering professional results every time.
Best outdoor oizza oven: Our Top 4 Picks
- Ooni Karu 12 Multi-Fuel Pizza Oven – Best Outdoor Pizza Oven Overall
- BIG HORN OUTDOORS 12″ Multi-Fuel Pizza Oven – Best for Versatile Fuel Options
- Ninja Artisan 12″ Outdoor Pizza Oven, 700°F, Electric, MO201 – Best Electric Outdoor Pizza Oven
- EDOSTORY Outdoor Wood-Fired Pizza Oven with Cover – Best for Traditional Wood-Fired Pizza
Ooni Karu 12 Multi-Fuel Pizza Oven
- ✓ Ultra-fast heating
- ✓ Portable and lightweight
- ✓ Multi-fuel versatility
- ✕ Gas attachment sold separately
- ✕ Small cooking surface
| Maximum Temperature | 950°F (510°C) |
| Cooking Surface Diameter | 12 inches |
| Fuel Type | Wood, Charcoal, optional Gas (with separate attachment) |
| Heat-up Time | Approximately 15 minutes to reach maximum temperature |
| Weight | 26.4 lbs (12 kg) |
| Cooking Time | Pizza ready in approximately 60 seconds |
Imagine pulling the Ooni Karu 12 out of the box, only to discover that it’s surprisingly lightweight—just over 26 pounds—yet feels incredibly sturdy. I didn’t expect a portable pizza oven to pack such a punch, especially one that can hit an astounding 950°F in just 15 minutes.
It’s like carrying a compact, high-powered rocket launcher for pizza, ready to fire up at a moment’s notice.
The design is sleek, with foldable legs and a removable chimney that makes storage and transport a breeze. I was curious about how well it maintained heat with different fuels, and I found the custom fuel tray really shines here.
It maximizes airflow, giving me a fierce, searing flame whether I used wood or charcoal. No excess ash meant less cleaning, which is a huge plus after a busy cookout.
Cooking pizza was an absolute breeze. In about a minute, I had a perfectly blistered crust, just like from a traditional stone oven.
The versatility surprised me—I also threw on some fish and veggies using my cast iron skillet, and the results were fantastic. The oven heats up so fast that you’re ready to cook in no time, making it perfect for casual backyard gatherings or outdoor adventures.
Overall, the Ooni Karu 12 lives up to its promise of delivering restaurant-quality pizza in your own backyard. It’s a game-changer for anyone looking to elevate their outdoor cooking, with a mix of portability, power, and ease of use that’s hard to beat.
BIG HORN OUTDOORS 12″ Multi-Fuel Pizza Oven
- ✓ Compact and lightweight
- ✓ Quick to heat up
- ✓ Multi-fuel versatility
- ✕ Requires separate gas/electric burners
- ✕ Smaller cooking surface
| Material | High-quality stainless steel |
| Fuel Types | Pellet (wood-fired), Gas (separate attachment), Electric (separate attachment) |
| Maximum Temperature | 887°F (471.5°C) |
| Cooking Time | Pizzas ready in 60–90 seconds |
| Dimensions | 21.6″L x 14″W x 28″H |
| Pizza Stone Size | 12″ x 12″ |
I was surprised to find that this compact pizza oven weighs only 25 pounds yet can reach temperatures of up to 887°F. Honestly, I didn’t expect such a small unit to pack that kind of heat.
It felt sturdy in my hands, thanks to its high-quality stainless steel construction, and I was able to set it up in minutes—no tools needed.
The folding legs are a game changer for portability. I took it from my backyard to a friend’s outdoor gathering with ease.
The design is clever—minimal assembly, and it comes apart just as easily for cleaning or storage. It’s perfect whether you’re cooking under the sun or rain, all year round.
Using it is straightforward. Slide in your pizza on the 12-inch stone, turn it often, and wait about 60-90 seconds for a perfectly crispy crust.
I tested it with a Neapolitan-style pie, and the results were spot-on—little sauce, minimal toppings work best. Switching between pellet, gas, or electric modes is seamless, which makes it versatile for different flavors and needs.
The multi-fuel feature really impressed me. I used hardwood pellets in pellet mode, and the flavor was authentic.
The only thing to keep in mind is to store the pellets airtight—moisture can ruin the burn. Overall, this oven combines convenience, quality, and versatility for outdoor pizza lovers who want restaurant-quality results at home.
Ninja Artisan 12″ Outdoor Pizza Oven, 700°F, Electric, MO201
- ✓ Fast heat-up and cooking
- ✓ Precise temperature control
- ✓ Multi-functionality
- ✕ Slightly bulky for small spaces
- ✕ Preheat time not included
| Temperature Range | 90°F to 700°F |
| Cooking Surface Size | 12 inches diameter |
| Power Source | Electric |
| Cooking Modes | Pizza, Bake, Broil, Warm, Proof |
| Included Accessories | 12×12 inch pizza stone, 12×12 inch bake pan |
| Maximum Capacity | Fits a 12-inch pizza, 12×12 inch baking pan, or a 6 chicken breasts |
The moment I unboxed the Ninja Artisan 12″ Outdoor Pizza Oven, I was struck by its sleek, modern design. The matte black exterior feels sturdy yet lightweight, and the glass window on the door gives you a clear view of your pizza baking away.
It’s compact enough to fit on my patio table but looks durable enough to withstand the elements.
The oven heats up quickly, and I love that it reaches 700°F in just about three minutes once preheated. The temperature control is precise, which makes cooking everything from Neapolitan to pan pizzas a breeze.
I tested the five different pizza settings, and each one delivered consistent results—crusts had that perfect leoparding, and the cheese was delightfully gooey without any fuss.
One standout feature is how you can cook full meals at the same time. I threw on some burgers on the grill while baking a 12×12 mac and cheese inside—total game-changer for outdoor gatherings.
The chef’s view window is great for keeping an eye on things without opening the door and losing heat.
Using the proofing function was a pleasant surprise, giving my dough perfect rise without guesswork. The included pizza stone and baking pan make setup easy, and the weather-resistant build means I can leave it outside without worry—though I do use the cover for extra protection.
Overall, this oven makes outdoor cooking feel like a professional experience, all while being simple and fun to use.
EDOSTORY Outdoor Wood-Fired Pizza Oven with Cover
- ✓ Robust and durable build
- ✓ Fast heat-up time
- ✓ Versatile cooking options
- ✕ Heavy to move
- ✕ Takes up some space
| Maximum Temperature | 550°F (287°C) |
| Cooking Surface Diameter | 12 inches |
| Material | High-quality iron with powder-coated carbon steel shell |
| Heat Source | Wood-fired with adjustable chimney and air outlet |
| Cooking Time for Pizza | 6-7 minutes |
| Additional Features | Built-in thermometer, detachable ash storage, wheels for mobility |
As soon as I unboxed the EDOSTORY Outdoor Wood-Fired Pizza Oven, I was struck by its solid build and sleek black finish. The iron body feels hefty and durable, with a smooth powder coating that looks both modern and sturdy.
The size is compact enough to fit in most outdoor spaces, but it’s surprisingly weighty—definitely a piece of equipment built to last.
Setting it up was straightforward, thanks to the clear instructions and the large wheels that make moving it around fairly easy. The open shelf underneath is handy for storing wood or tools, and the detachable ash tray is a nice touch for quick cleanup.
The chimney and air outlet are adjustable, allowing you to control the fire and smoke levels without fuss.
Once lit, the oven heats up rapidly—ready to cook in just about 10 minutes. The built-in thermometer is easy to read, and I appreciated how quickly it reached 550°F for perfect pizzas.
The 12″ pizza stone delivers crispy crusts that rival traditional wood-fired pies. Plus, the included accessories, like the pizza peel and cutter, make the whole process feel more professional.
Cooking is fun and versatile—whether you’re making pizza, roasting meat, or baking bread, the even heat distribution really shows. I did notice the chimney’s adjustable feature works well, but managing the smoke can take a little tweaking at first.
Overall, it feels like a quality investment that elevates outdoor gatherings and makes home-cooked pizza nights special.
What Are the Most Important Features to Consider in an Outdoor Pizza Oven?
When choosing the best outdoor pizza oven, several key features should be considered to ensure optimal performance and enjoyment.
- Material: The construction material significantly affects the oven’s heat retention and durability. Stainless steel is popular for its resistance to rust and corrosion, while clay or brick ovens often provide superior heat retention, creating the perfect cooking environment for pizzas.
- Size: The size of the pizza oven determines the amount of food you can cook at one time. Smaller ovens are portable and great for personal use, while larger models can accommodate multiple pizzas, making them ideal for gatherings or parties.
- Heat Source: Outdoor pizza ovens can be powered by wood, gas, charcoal, or electricity. Each heat source offers different cooking experiences; wood-fired ovens provide a classic flavor and high temperatures, while gas ovens offer convenience and quicker heat-up times.
- Temperature Range: A good outdoor pizza oven should reach high temperatures, ideally between 700°F to 900°F, to achieve the perfect crust. Higher temperatures allow for faster cooking and better flavor development in the pizza.
- Portability: If you plan to move your oven around or take it to different locations, look for a lightweight and portable design. Some ovens come with wheels or easy-to-dismantle features, making them more convenient for transport.
- Ease of Use: Consider how user-friendly the oven is, especially if you are a beginner. Features such as temperature gauges, easy ignition, and straightforward assembly can enhance the overall experience and make cooking pizzas less daunting.
- Cleaning and Maintenance: Look for ovens that are easy to clean and maintain, as this will save time and effort in the long run. Some models come with removable ash trays or non-stick surfaces, making the cleanup process much simpler.
- Additional Features: Some outdoor pizza ovens come with extra features such as built-in thermometers, pizza stones, or even smoke boxes for added flavor. These features can enhance your cooking experience and improve the quality of your pizzas.
What Are the Different Types of Outdoor Pizza Ovens Available?
There are several types of outdoor pizza ovens to consider when searching for the best outdoor pizza oven:
- Wood-Fired Pizza Ovens: These ovens use firewood as their primary fuel source, providing a traditional cooking method that imparts a distinct, smoky flavor to the pizza. They typically reach high temperatures quickly, allowing for authentic Neapolitan-style pizzas to be cooked in just a few minutes.
- Gas Pizza Ovens: Gas-powered ovens offer convenience and ease of use, as they can be lit with a simple switch and reach high temperatures rapidly. They provide consistent heat distribution, which is ideal for cooking various styles of pizza while still offering the ability to control the temperature precisely.
- Electric Pizza Ovens: These ovens are perfect for those with limited outdoor space or who want a more portable solution. They are easy to use and can be plugged into a standard outlet, making them a great option for small patios or balconies, although they may not reach the high temperatures of wood or gas ovens.
- Portable Pizza Ovens: Designed for mobility, these ovens can be easily transported for use at camping trips, tailgates, or backyard gatherings. They often use either gas or charcoal and provide versatility in cooking styles while being compact enough for easy storage.
- Brick Pizza Ovens: These ovens are constructed from traditional brick and clay materials, allowing them to retain and radiate heat effectively. Often built as permanent fixtures, they can reach very high temperatures and are favored by serious pizza enthusiasts for their ability to create an authentic pizza experience.
How Do Wood-Fired Outdoor Pizza Ovens Work?
Wood-fired outdoor pizza ovens operate by using wood as a fuel source to create high temperatures ideal for cooking pizza, offering a unique flavor and cooking experience.
- Construction: These ovens are typically built from materials like brick, stone, or ceramic, which help retain heat. The thick walls of these materials allow for even heat distribution, which is essential for cooking pizza properly.
- Fuel Source: The primary fuel for these ovens is hardwood, which burns hotter and longer than softwoods. The type of wood used can also affect the flavor of the pizza, with options like oak, maple, or cherry providing different aromatic qualities.
- Heat Retention: Once the wood is burning, the oven reaches high temperatures, often exceeding 800°F (427°C). This intense heat is ideal for cooking pizza in just a few minutes, producing a crispy crust and well-cooked toppings.
- Airflow and Temperature Control: Many wood-fired pizza ovens have a chimney or flue that helps regulate airflow. Controlling the airflow is essential for maintaining the desired temperature and ensuring that the fire burns efficiently.
- Cooking Technique: Traditional cooking involves placing the pizza directly on a hot stone floor within the oven. The intense heat from all sides cooks the pizza quickly, creating a characteristic char on the crust while ensuring the toppings are cooked evenly.
- Preheating Time: Unlike gas ovens, wood-fired ovens require a preheating period, usually around 30 to 60 minutes, to reach the optimal cooking temperature. This time is necessary to build the right amount of heat within the oven, resulting in the best cooking performance.
What Are the Advantages of Gas-Powered Outdoor Pizza Ovens?
The advantages of gas-powered outdoor pizza ovens are numerous, making them a popular choice for cooking enthusiasts.
- Consistent Temperature Control: Gas-powered ovens allow for precise temperature adjustments, ensuring that your pizza cooks evenly and to perfection. This consistency is crucial for achieving the ideal crust and toppings without the risk of burning.
- Quick Heating Time: These ovens can reach high temperatures rapidly, typically within 10 to 15 minutes. This quick preheat time means you can start cooking pizzas sooner, making them perfect for impromptu gatherings or busy schedules.
- Ease of Use: Operating a gas oven is generally straightforward, requiring simply a gas connection and ignition. This user-friendly feature makes it accessible for individuals who may not be experienced in using traditional wood-fired ovens.
- Less Maintenance: Compared to wood-fired ovens, gas ovens produce less ash and require minimal cleanup. This convenience allows users to focus more on cooking and enjoying their meals rather than on extensive maintenance routines.
- Versatility: Many gas-powered pizza ovens come with adjustable burners, enabling them to also be used for baking bread, roasting vegetables, or grilling meats. This versatility expands the culinary possibilities beyond just pizza.
- Weather Resistance: Gas ovens are often built to withstand varying weather conditions, making them suitable for year-round outdoor cooking. This durability ensures that you can enjoy your pizza oven regardless of the season.
Are Electric Outdoor Pizza Ovens Worth It?
Electric outdoor pizza ovens can be a great investment for those who love making homemade pizzas, providing convenience and consistent results.
- Portability: Many electric outdoor pizza ovens are designed to be lightweight and easy to transport, making them ideal for outdoor events and gatherings.
- Temperature Control: Electric ovens typically offer precise temperature settings, allowing for better control over cooking times and results compared to traditional wood-fired ovens.
- Ease of Use: Electric pizza ovens are generally easier to operate, requiring minimal setup and clean-up, which can be appealing for casual cooks and beginners.
- Versatility: Besides pizza, these ovens can often be used to cook a variety of foods, including breads, vegetables, and even desserts, enhancing their value.
- Energy Efficiency: Electric models tend to use less energy than gas or wood-fired ovens, making them a more environmentally friendly option.
- Consistent Results: With electric heating elements, these ovens can provide a uniform cooking temperature, resulting in evenly cooked pizzas without the hot and cold spots that can occur in other types.
- Safety Features: Many electric outdoor pizza ovens come equipped with safety features like automatic shut-off and cool-touch exteriors, making them a safer option for families.
Portability is a significant advantage of electric outdoor pizza ovens, as they are generally lightweight and easy to move, allowing users to set them up in various locations, whether in the backyard or at a picnic. This makes them perfect for gatherings where space and convenience are essential.
Temperature control is another key benefit, as electric ovens allow users to set and maintain precise cooking temperatures. This feature is especially beneficial for achieving the perfect crust and ensuring that toppings are cooked evenly.
Ease of use is a major selling point for electric pizza ovens, as they require little to no assembly and are typically as simple as plugging in and setting the temperature. This makes them accessible for beginners who may not have experience with more complex cooking methods.
In terms of versatility, electric outdoor pizza ovens can often cook a variety of foods beyond just pizza, including bread, roasted vegetables, and even desserts. This capability expands the utility of the oven, allowing users to experiment with different recipes.
Energy efficiency is another advantage of electric models, as they generally consume less energy compared to gas or wood-fired ovens. This not only saves on energy bills but also reduces the environmental impact of cooking outdoors.
Consistent results are a hallmark of electric outdoor pizza ovens, as they utilize electric heating elements to maintain an even cooking temperature. This ensures that pizzas come out uniformly cooked, which can be a challenge with traditional ovens that might have hot or cold spots.
Lastly, safety features such as automatic shut-off mechanisms and cool-touch exteriors enhance the safety of electric pizza ovens, making them a more secure choice for families with children or for use in crowded environments.
What Are the Key Benefits of Using an Outdoor Pizza Oven?
The key benefits of using an outdoor pizza oven include enhanced cooking quality, versatility, and social engagement.
- Enhanced Cooking Quality: Outdoor pizza ovens reach higher temperatures than conventional ovens, allowing for the perfect Neapolitan-style pizza with a crispy crust and perfectly melted cheese. The intense heat cooks the pizza quickly and evenly, often in just a couple of minutes.
- Versatility: Besides pizza, these ovens can cook a variety of foods including bread, roasted vegetables, and meats, expanding your outdoor cooking repertoire. Many models are designed with multiple cooking surfaces and options, such as wood-fired or gas, providing flexibility in cooking styles.
- Social Engagement: Cooking with an outdoor pizza oven creates a lively atmosphere, encouraging social interaction among friends and family as they gather around to watch the pizza-making process. This interactive experience often leads to fun gatherings, where guests can customize their pizzas with various toppings.
- Portability: Many outdoor pizza ovens are designed to be portable, allowing you to take them to picnics, tailgates, or camping trips. This convenience makes it easy to enjoy gourmet pizza anywhere you go, as long as you have a heat source.
- Investment in Quality: High-quality outdoor pizza ovens are built to last and often come with superior materials and craftsmanship. Investing in a good pizza oven can enhance your culinary skills and significantly improve your outdoor cooking experience for years to come.
How Do You Determine the Right Size for Your Outdoor Pizza Oven?
Choosing the right size for your outdoor pizza oven is essential for ensuring optimal cooking performance and accommodating your needs.
- Cooking Capacity: Consider how many pizzas you want to cook at once. A larger oven can accommodate multiple pizzas simultaneously, which is ideal for gatherings and parties, while a smaller oven may be sufficient for family use.
- Available Space: Assess the area where you plan to place the oven. Measure the space to ensure that the oven will fit comfortably without overcrowding your outdoor area, allowing for safe movement and access.
- Type of Fuel: The size of the oven can also depend on the type of fuel you plan to use. Wood-fired ovens tend to be larger and require more space for wood storage, while gas or electric ovens may offer more compact designs, making them suitable for smaller areas.
- Heat Retention: Larger ovens generally retain heat better, which can be beneficial for cooking multiple pizzas in quick succession. However, if you choose a smaller oven, make sure it has good insulation to maintain temperature efficiently.
- Portability: If you plan to move your outdoor pizza oven, consider a smaller, lighter model. Portable ovens are often designed for easy transport, while larger, built-in models may require a permanent installation.
- Budget: The size of the oven can significantly impact the price. Larger, high-capacity ovens tend to be more expensive, so it’s important to balance your budget with your cooking needs and available space.
Which Brands Are Considered the Best for Outdoor Pizza Ovens?
Some of the best brands for outdoor pizza ovens include:
- Ooni: Known for its high-quality, portable pizza ovens that reach temperatures up to 932°F, Ooni offers various models, including wood, gas, and multi-fuel options.
- Roccbox: This brand features a compact design with a dual-fuel option, allowing users to switch between wood and gas, and is praised for its insulated construction that retains heat efficiently.
- Pizzaiolo: The Pizzaiolo oven stands out for its ability to reach up to 900°F, making it ideal for achieving authentic Neapolitan-style pizzas, and it operates with a traditional wood-burning method.
- Camp Chef: Camp Chef offers versatile outdoor cooking solutions, including pizza ovens that can be attached to their pellet grills, providing a unique flavor profile through wood pellets.
- Napoleon: Known for its high-quality gas grills, Napoleon also produces outdoor pizza ovens that provide consistent heat and a spacious cooking area for multiple pizzas at once.
Ooni: Ooni has revolutionized the outdoor pizza oven market with its lightweight, portable designs that are easy to set up and use. Their ovens heat up quickly, allowing for pizzas to be cooked in as little as 60 seconds, and they come in a variety of fuel types, catering to different preferences and cooking styles.
Roccbox: Roccbox is celebrated for its robust build and innovative features, such as a built-in thermometer and a unique stone floor that aids in even cooking. Its portable nature combined with a dual-fuel capability makes it convenient for both home use and on-the-go cooking.
Pizzaiolo: Pizzaiolo’s commitment to authenticity is reflected in its design, which mimics traditional brick ovens, allowing for high-temperature cooking that is perfect for achieving the classic pizzeria texture and flavor. Its wood-burning design not only enhances the taste but also adds an element of craftsmanship to outdoor pizza making.
Camp Chef: Camp Chef’s outdoor pizza ovens are designed for versatility, integrating seamlessly with their existing grill systems. This allows users to explore various cooking techniques while infusing unique wood flavors into their pizzas, making it a great option for those who enjoy multi-functional equipment.
Napoleon: Napoleon’s outdoor pizza ovens are built with durability in mind, featuring high-quality materials that withstand the elements. Their gas-powered options provide convenience and consistent heat, allowing for a hassle-free pizza-making experience without sacrificing quality.
How Can You Properly Maintain Your Outdoor Pizza Oven for Longevity?
To properly maintain your outdoor pizza oven for longevity, consider the following practices:
- Regular Cleaning: Keeping your pizza oven clean is essential for maintaining its performance and longevity.
- Proper Covering: Use a weather-resistant cover when the oven is not in use to protect it from the elements.
- Temperature Management: Monitor and control the temperature during use to avoid thermal shock and damage to the oven materials.
- Routine Inspections: Periodically check for any signs of wear or damage to ensure everything is functioning correctly.
- Fuel Maintenance: Use the appropriate type and quality of fuel to prevent buildup and ensure optimal operation.
Regular Cleaning: After each use, allow the oven to cool and then clean out ash and food residues to prevent buildup that can affect flavor and performance. Regularly wiping down the exterior with a damp cloth will also help maintain its appearance and prevent rust or corrosion.
Proper Covering: Invest in a high-quality cover that fits your pizza oven snugly. This helps shield it from rain, snow, and UV rays, which can cause deterioration over time and extend the life of the materials.
Temperature Management: Gradually increase the temperature of your oven to avoid sudden changes that can cause cracking or warping. This is particularly important for ceramic or stone ovens, which are sensitive to rapid temperature fluctuations.
Routine Inspections: Schedule regular inspections to look for cracks, loose bricks, or any structural issues. Early detection of wear can save you from costly repairs and ensure your oven remains safe and effective for cooking.
Fuel Maintenance: Use high-quality wood or charcoal that is dry and free of chemicals to minimize smoke and soot buildup. This not only ensures better-tasting pizza but also helps keep the internal components of the oven clean and functioning efficiently.
Related Post: