The Big Green Egg (BGE) has become a household name for barbecue enthusiasts, thanks to its exceptional versatility and ability to grill, smoke, bake, and roast with superior heat retention.
However, one aspect that often comes up when considering purchasing a Big Green Egg is its weight. Whether you’re thinking about moving it, setting it up in a specific location, or simply want to understand how the weight affects its performance, understanding the weight of the Big Green Egg is crucial.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore how much the Big Green Egg weighs, how its weight varies between models, and the factors that contribute to its substantial mass. By the end of this article, you will be equipped to make an informed decision on which Big Green Egg model is best for your needs.
What Is a Big Green Egg?
The Big Green Egg is a high-performance ceramic cooker, commonly referred to as a kamado grill, that allows for grilling, smoking, baking, and roasting. The BGE’s unique egg-shaped design is more than just for aesthetics; it plays a crucial role in maintaining consistent heat and airflow throughout the cooking process. Made from premium-quality ceramic, the Big Green Egg excels at retaining heat and providing an even cooking environment, which is why it’s become so popular among BBQ aficionados and casual cooks alike.
Design and Construction
- Material: The BGE is made from a high-fired ceramic material that is specifically engineered to provide excellent insulation. The ceramic construction ensures that the cooker can retain heat for hours, which results in better energy efficiency and consistent cooking temperatures.
- Shape: The egg shape of the BGE is vital to its heat retention and cooking capabilities. The shape allows for optimal air circulation inside the cooker, ensuring even heat distribution across the food.
- Components: Key components include the ceramic body, stainless steel bands, a cooking grid, and a firebox that holds the charcoal. Some models also include advanced features like a digital controller for precise temperature management and a convEGGtor for indirect cooking.
The weight of the Big Green Egg largely comes from the thickness of its ceramic body, with larger models naturally requiring more ceramic material and thus weighing more.
Types of Big Green Eggs
Big Green Egg offers a variety of models to meet the needs of different users, from those who cook for small gatherings to those who cater large events. The weight and size of each model are directly related to the cooking capacity it offers. Here is a breakdown of the different types of Big Green Eggs:
- Mini: The smallest model, designed for portability and small cooking tasks. It’s perfect for those with limited space or for tailgating and camping trips.
- MiniMax: Slightly larger than the Mini, the MiniMax offers more cooking space but still retains the portability aspect, making it ideal for smaller households.
- Small: This model is great for small families or casual cooks who need a balance between cooking capacity and ease of use.
- Medium: Ideal for medium-sized families, this model offers a good cooking area without being too large or heavy.
- Large: The most popular model, known for its generous cooking space, is perfect for families or those who entertain frequently.
- XLarge: This model is built for those who need to cook large quantities or prefer to entertain large groups.
- 2XL: The largest model, designed for high-volume cooking. It’s capable of cooking for big parties or events, making it suitable for professional chefs or BBQ competition enthusiasts.
How Much Does a Big Green Egg Weigh?
The weight of a Big Green Egg is significantly influenced by its size. The smaller models are more lightweight and portable, while the larger models can be quite heavy. Here’s an overview of the weight of each model:
- Mini: Weighs approximately 39 pounds (17.7 kg). This is the lightest option and is perfect for those who need a portable cooking solution.
- MiniMax: Weighs around 76 pounds (34.5 kg). It’s a bit heavier but still portable, offering a good balance between weight and cooking capacity.
- Small: Weighs about 83 pounds (37.6 kg). This model is suitable for small families and offers a manageable weight for easy transportation.
- Medium: Weighs approximately 114 pounds (51.7 kg). It’s heavier than the smaller models but still manageable for most backyard chefs.
- Large: Weighs about 162 pounds (73.5 kg). The most popular model, it’s heavy but offers ample cooking space for a variety of cooking styles.
- XLarge: Weighs approximately 219 pounds (99.8 kg). This model is built for larger gatherings and can cook larger portions at once.
- 2XL: Weighs around 375 pounds (170 kg). This is the heaviest model and is designed for those who need maximum cooking capacity for large events or commercial use.
Comparison Table: Big Green Egg Weights
| Model | Weight (lbs) | Weight (kg) | Cooking Area (sq in) | Diameter (inches) | Cost ($) | Material | Ideal For |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mini | 39 | 17.7 | 79 | 12.5 | 400 – 500 | Ceramic | Small gatherings, portability |
| MiniMax | 76 | 34.5 | 133 | 13.5 | 700 – 800 | Ceramic, Stainless Steel | Small families, portability |
| Small | 83 | 37.6 | 133 | 14.5 | 800 – 900 | Ceramic | Couples, small families |
| Medium | 114 | 51.7 | 177 | 15 | 1,000 – 1,100 | Ceramic | Medium families, occasional entertaining |
| Large | 162 | 73.5 | 262 | 18.25 | 1,200 – 1,400 | Ceramic | Families, frequent entertaining |
| XLarge | 219 | 99.8 | 452 | 24 | 1,500 – 1,700 | Ceramic | Large families, frequent grilling |
| 2XL | 375 | 170 | 672 | 29 | 2,500 – 2,700 | Ceramic | Large events, professional use |
Basics of a Big Green Egg Weight
The weight of a Big Green Egg is determined by several key factors:
Material Composition
The high-quality ceramic used in the BGE’s construction is dense and contributes significantly to its weight. The ceramic’s thickness is crucial for heat retention, but it also makes the cooker heavier. The weight of the egg increases with the amount of ceramic used in the structure, which is why larger models are heavier.
Size of the Cooker
As the size of the Big Green Egg increases, so does the amount of material used. Larger models, such as the XLarge and 2XL, require more ceramic material for the body and components, making them significantly heavier than smaller models like the Mini or MiniMax.
Additional Features
Some Big Green Egg models come with extra features like stainless steel bands, digital controllers, and more sophisticated vents, all of which add extra weight. While these features increase the cooker’s functionality, they also contribute to the overall mass.
Factors Influencing Big Green Egg Weight
The Big Green Egg (BGE) is widely praised for its cooking versatility, thanks to its efficient heat retention and ability to grill, smoke, bake, and roast. One of the critical factors that affect the overall user experience with a Big Green Egg is its weight. Understanding what contributes to the weight of these ceramic cookers can help you make an informed choice when purchasing and setting up your BGE. Several factors directly influence the weight, including the material composition, size, manufacturing techniques, and additional accessories.
Battery Chemistry and Material Composition
The material used to construct the Big Green Egg is perhaps the most influential factor affecting its weight. The ceramic construction of the BGE plays a critical role in its heat retention and overall durability, but it also contributes to its substantial weight.
Ceramic Material
The BGE is constructed using high-quality ceramic that is specifically designed to withstand high temperatures. Ceramic is a dense and durable material that naturally adds weight to the overall structure of the cooker. The thicker the ceramic walls, the heavier the cooker becomes. This thick ceramic helps retain heat, ensuring that the cooking environment remains stable and consistent over long cooking periods. Larger models, with more surface area, naturally require more ceramic material, which leads to a heavier unit.
Heat Retention and Efficiency
The ceramic material is integral not only to the weight but also to the cooking performance of the Big Green Egg. Ceramic is an excellent insulator, which is why the BGE excels at heat retention, allowing it to maintain consistent temperatures for longer periods. However, the higher the quality and thickness of the ceramic, the more weight is added to the unit.
Size of the Cooker
Another significant factor influencing the weight of a Big Green Egg is its size. The size of the BGE directly correlates with its weight, as larger models require more materials and more components to build. The cooking surface area, as well as the diameter of the egg, contribute to determining the overall weight.
Cooking Surface Area and Diameter
Larger models such as the 2XL and XLarge Big Green Eggs are designed to provide more cooking space, meaning they need more ceramic material. This increase in size results in a proportional increase in the weight of the unit. For instance, the Mini model weighs approximately 39 pounds (17.7 kg), while the largest model, the 2XL, weighs around 375 pounds (170 kg). This massive difference in weight is largely due to the amount of ceramic used and the physical space available for cooking.
Impact of Larger Components
The firebox, fire ring, cooking grid, and other structural components in larger models are also heavier, contributing to the increased weight. These models are designed to handle more fuel and heat, which requires additional material for structural integrity.
Branding and Manufacturing Techniques
While the basic design of the Big Green Egg is similar across all models, different manufacturers or brands may influence the weight of the unit through variations in their ceramic formulas, thickness, and overall construction.
Ceramic Formulas and Thickness
Each manufacturer may use slightly different ceramic formulations or thicknesses. For example, some brands may choose a thicker ceramic shell for added durability, which will increase the weight. Others might use a more refined or less dense ceramic material to reduce weight, but this could potentially impact the heat retention or insulation properties of the cooker.
Reinforced Components
Certain models, especially those that are designed for commercial or high-performance use, may have reinforced components like thicker stainless steel bands, heavier-duty fireboxes, and more robust hinges. These reinforcements are added to improve durability, but they also contribute to the weight of the Big Green Egg. The larger and more robust these components are, the heavier the unit becomes.
Additional Accessories
The weight of a Big Green Egg isn’t just determined by the cooker itself; the accessories that come with or are added to the unit can also impact its overall mass.
Nests, Tables, and Carts
One of the most common accessories that contribute to the overall weight is the nest or stand. This is the base on which the Big Green Egg sits, and it is designed to provide stability and mobility. Depending on the material used for the stand, it can add anywhere from 10 to 30 pounds (4.5 to 13.6 kg) to the overall weight. Similarly, larger tables or carts used for the bigger models can add additional weight, making the entire setup more substantial.
ConvEGGtor
The convEGGtor is an indirect cooking accessory that turns your Big Green Egg into an oven by providing a heat barrier between the food and the charcoal. This accessory is typically made from ceramic or metal and can add anywhere from 5 to 20 pounds (2.3 to 9 kg) to the total weight, depending on the size of the Big Green Egg. While this accessory is essential for slow-cooking or baking, it contributes to the overall mass.
Pizza Stones and Racks
Additional cooking accessories like pizza stones, rib racks, and baking stones can also impact the weight of your BGE, especially if they are made of heavy-duty materials such as ceramic, cast iron, or stone. These can range in weight from a few pounds to over 10 pounds (4.5 kg).
Why Big Green Egg Weight Matters
The weight of a Big Green Egg (BGE) plays a crucial role in various aspects of its functionality and usability. While it’s easy to focus on the cooking capacity and features, understanding the importance of the BGE’s weight can help you make an informed decision about which model to purchase based on your needs. Several factors, including portability, installation, and performance, are directly influenced by the weight of the Big Green Egg.
Portability
One of the primary considerations when buying a Big Green Egg is portability. If you’re someone who enjoys taking your grill on the go—whether it’s to a camping site, a tailgate party, or simply moving it between different locations in your backyard—the weight of the BGE is a critical factor. Lighter models such as the Mini and MiniMax are designed to be easily portable. Weighing about 39 pounds (17.7 kg) for the Mini and 76 pounds (34.5 kg) for the MiniMax, these smaller models are more manageable for one person to carry and set up.
However, larger models, such as the 2XL, which weighs around 375 pounds (170 kg), are not designed for frequent relocation. These larger models are heavy and may require a team effort to move and install. Their substantial weight, while ensuring durability and heat retention, makes them less practical for those who need to transport the cooker regularly. It’s essential to evaluate how often you’ll be moving the Big Green Egg and choose a model that suits your mobility requirements.
Installation
The weight of a Big Green Egg also plays a crucial role in its installation. Larger models, with their significant mass, require a solid, stable surface for safe use. If you’re placing your Big Green Egg on a table, cart, or dedicated stand, the surface needs to be strong enough to support its weight. For example, the 2XL, with its 375-pound (170 kg) frame, would require a heavy-duty cart or table to ensure stability during cooking.
If the weight isn’t properly supported, there is a risk of the BGE becoming unstable, which could cause accidents or damage. This is particularly important if you plan to move the BGE outdoors or indoors or reposition it regularly. Choosing a stable and robust support system is vital, especially for larger models, to prevent any structural issues.
Durability and Performance
The weight of a Big Green Egg is not just about how easy it is to move—it’s also a key indicator of the BGE’s durability and cooking performance. The weight of the BGE primarily comes from the thick ceramic material used in its construction. This dense, high-fired ceramic helps to maintain temperature stability, which is essential for high-quality cooking, especially for slow cooking and smoking.
Heavier models generally offer better heat control and longer cooking times. The additional ceramic material in larger models like the XLarge and 2XL helps to retain heat for longer periods, making them ideal for cooking methods that require low and slow temperatures, such as smoking brisket or baking pizzas. This improved heat retention is crucial for achieving perfect results and ensures that your BGE performs consistently throughout long cooking sessions.
While the larger models are more difficult to move, their increased weight is a direct benefit when it comes to the quality of cooking. They allow for superior heat retention, resulting in better efficiency, reduced fuel consumption, and more consistent cooking results.
What to Consider While Choosing a Big Green Egg
Choosing the right Big Green Egg (BGE) requires careful consideration of several factors, all of which can impact your cooking experience, space requirements, and overall satisfaction with the unit. The BGE is available in various sizes, each catering to different cooking needs, available space, and budget. Below are the key elements to keep in mind when selecting a Big Green Egg that best suits your lifestyle and grilling preferences.
1. Cooking Needs: Assessing Your Food Capacity and Event Type
Before choosing a Big Green Egg, it’s essential to evaluate how much food you typically cook and the type of events you usually host. The BGE comes in various sizes, from the compact Mini model to the large 2XL, and each is designed to accommodate different cooking capacities.
Small to Medium Gatherings
If you primarily cook for a small family or host occasional BBQs with a few friends, a Mini or MiniMax may be sufficient. The Mini offers a smaller cooking area and is perfect for individuals or couples, while the MiniMax, with its slightly larger cooking grid, is ideal for small families. These models can comfortably grill burgers, vegetables, fish, and a small roast, providing enough space for intimate gatherings.
Larger Gatherings and Frequent Entertaining
For those who entertain large groups regularly or have a large family, a larger model like the Large, XLarge, or 2XL would be a better fit. The Large is the most popular model and offers ample space for grilling large cuts of meat, whole chickens, or multiple racks of ribs. If you regularly host parties or cook for large groups, the XLarge and 2XL models are capable of handling large quantities of food, making them ideal for cooking multiple items at once, such as roasting two full turkeys or several slabs of ribs.
Cooking Style and Versatility
In addition to considering the quantity of food you cook, think about the type of cooking you prefer. Larger models offer more versatility when it comes to low-and-slow cooking, smoking, and indirect grilling. If you want to experiment with pizza baking or multi-zone grilling, larger cookers give you more room to work with. The 2XL, with its extra cooking space, is perfect for high-volume cooking and even catering for events.
2. Space: Ensuring Adequate Room for Your Big Green Egg
Another important factor to consider when choosing a Big Green Egg is the space available in your backyard or patio. Since BGEs are large cooking units, you’ll need to ensure that your outdoor space can accommodate the model you choose.
Small Spaces
If you have a smaller backyard, balcony, or patio, a Mini or MiniMax would be more appropriate. These smaller models are designed for portability and compactness while still offering exceptional cooking performance. The Mini is ideal for those with limited space or for apartment dwellers with a balcony. However, even the MiniMax, although slightly larger, can still fit comfortably on smaller patios without taking up too much room.
Larger Spaces
For those with more expansive outdoor spaces, larger models like the Large, XLarge, or 2XL are better suited. These models require a sturdier surface to support their weight, whether it’s a custom table, cart, or nest. The XLarge and 2XL models, in particular, are designed for individuals who want to make the most out of their outdoor cooking space. However, keep in mind that these models require a significant amount of room to set up and operate comfortably.
Portability and Storage
If you plan to move your Big Green Egg around frequently, such as for camping trips, tailgating, or family gatherings, it’s essential to think about how easy it will be to transport. Smaller models like the Mini or MiniMax are lighter and more portable, allowing you to store and move them with ease. If portability isn’t a concern and you have the space to accommodate a larger model permanently, then a bigger cooker will work just fine.
3. Portability: Choosing the Right Model for Frequent Movement
Portability is a key consideration if you plan to move your Big Green Egg from one location to another. While the BGE is primarily a stationary cooker, some users may want the flexibility to transport it for outdoor events or take it with them on trips.
Compact and Portable Models
The Mini and MiniMax are designed with portability in mind. The Mini weighs about 39 pounds (17.7 kg) and is easy to carry, while the MiniMax, at around 76 pounds (34.5 kg), provides more cooking space without sacrificing mobility. These models are ideal for those who need a lightweight cooker for on-the-go grilling or tailgating.
Heavier Models for Static Use
If you don’t plan to move your BGE often and have ample space for a more permanent setup, the Large, XLarge, and 2XL models are better suited for your needs. However, keep in mind that these larger units can weigh anywhere from 162 pounds (73.5 kg) to 375 pounds (170 kg). Moving these cookers requires either professional assistance or equipment, so they are better suited for homeowners with a permanent outdoor grilling station.
4. Budget: Balancing Cost and Features
The cost of a Big Green Egg can vary significantly depending on the model and any additional accessories. While larger models typically cost more due to their size and capacity, it’s important to balance the features with your budget.
Entry-Level Models
For those on a tighter budget or just starting out with outdoor cooking, the Mini and MiniMax are more affordable options. The Mini is priced around $400 – $500, while the MiniMax ranges from $700 – $800. These models offer great versatility and cooking power without breaking the bank.
Mid-Range Models
The Small, Medium, and Large models range from $800 – $1,400 and offer more cooking space, making them ideal for small to medium-sized families or individuals who entertain guests regularly. The Large model, in particular, is the most popular due to its affordability and adequate cooking space for typical family-sized meals.
High-End Models
The XLarge and 2XL models are more expensive, with prices ranging from $1,500 – $2,700. These units provide the maximum cooking space and are perfect for serious outdoor chefs or those who frequently entertain large groups. They are an investment, but for those who cook in large quantities and want professional-grade performance, they are well worth the price.
5. Maintenance and Longevity
Big Green Eggs are known for their durability and long lifespan, but regular maintenance is essential to ensure the cooker stays in top shape. The ceramic construction is highly durable, but it requires careful handling. It’s important to consider whether you have the time and resources to maintain a larger model, as the more extensive cooking area might require additional cleaning and care. Smaller models, while still durable, are generally easier to maintain due to their size and reduced cooking space.
How Much Does A Big Green Egg Hold?
The Big Green Egg’s cooking capacity varies based on the model you choose, with each model offering different amounts of cooking space to suit various needs. Here’s a breakdown of how much each model can hold in terms of cooking surface area and typical food capacity:
- Mini: Has a cooking surface area of about 79 square inches (509 cm²). It can hold roughly 4 burgers or 1 whole chicken. This model is ideal for small gatherings or personal use.
- MiniMax: Offers 133 square inches (856 cm²) of cooking space, which is suitable for 6 burgers or 1 whole chicken. A good option for small families or those who entertain occasionally.
- Small: With 133 square inches (856 cm²), it holds about the same as the MiniMax, but offers more versatility for slightly larger meals.
- Medium: Has 177 square inches (1,142 cm²) of cooking space, fitting 8 burgers or 1 turkey, making it ideal for medium-sized families.
- Large: Provides 262 square inches (1,689 cm²), capable of holding 12 burgers or 1 turkey. Perfect for larger families or casual entertaining.
- XLarge: Offers 452 square inches (2,913 cm²) and can hold 20 burgers or 2 turkeys, catering to bigger gatherings.
- 2XL: The largest, with 672 square inches (4,343 cm²), fitting up to 30 burgers or 3 turkeys, ideal for large events.
How Much Does a Big Green Egg Cost?
The cost of a Big Green Egg varies based on size and features. Smaller models like the Mini range from $400 to $500, while larger models like the 2XL can cost between $2,500 to $2,700. Accessories such as tables, covers, and convEGGtors can add to the overall cost.
Discuss Application and Uses of A Big Green Egg
The Big Green Egg (BGE) is more than just a grill—it’s a versatile outdoor cooking system capable of handling a wide range of cooking methods, making it a must-have for both casual home cooks and professional chefs. Its design allows it to excel in grilling, smoking, roasting, and baking, offering a unique cooking experience. Below are the primary applications and uses of a Big Green Egg.
1. Grilling
The Big Green Egg is first and foremost a high-performance grill. It excels at direct grilling, which involves cooking food over an open flame. The heat retention properties of the BGE allow it to reach and maintain high temperatures, making it perfect for grilling steaks, burgers, sausages, vegetables, and fish. With the ability to cook at temperatures ranging from 200°F to over 700°F (93°C to 371°C), it provides the versatility needed to cook a variety of foods to perfection.
2. Smoking
One of the standout features of the BGE is its exceptional ability to smoke meat at low and slow temperatures. The thick ceramic walls help maintain consistent temperatures over extended periods, making it ideal for smoking brisket, ribs, pulled pork, chicken, and fish. The convEGGtor, an indirect cooking accessory, helps create a convection-like environment for smoking, allowing the meat to cook evenly while infusing it with rich, smoky flavors.
3. Roasting
The Big Green Egg also functions as a roaster, allowing you to cook whole meals such as roast chicken, turkey, or vegetables. Its even heat distribution and consistent temperatures make it perfect for roasting meats or vegetables, creating a crisp, golden exterior while locking in moisture for tender, juicy results. Larger models like the XLarge or 2XL are particularly suited for larger cuts of meat, such as whole turkeys or brisket.
4. Baking
The versatility of the Big Green Egg extends to baking as well. With the addition of a pizza stone or baking stone, the BGE can easily function as a pizza oven or bread oven. The high heat retention and indirect heat method allow you to bake pizza, bread, cookies, and even desserts. The BGE’s ability to maintain consistent, high temperatures ensures that your baked goods come out with a crispy crust and perfectly cooked interiors.
5. Searing and Roasting
The BGE is also great for searing meats at high temperatures. For example, steaks benefit from the high heat, which creates a flavorful crust while maintaining a juicy interior. Similarly, roasting vegetables and meats with indirect heat in a BGE results in evenly cooked dishes with rich flavors.
6. Outdoor Cooking and Entertainment
Beyond its core cooking functions, the Big Green Egg serves as a fantastic centerpiece for outdoor gatherings and entertainment. It provides a fun, interactive cooking experience, whether you’re hosting a family BBQ, tailgating, or cooking for a large group. Its versatility allows you to prepare multiple dishes simultaneously, ensuring that guests have a memorable dining experience. The Mini and MiniMax models are perfect for portable cooking at outdoor events or tailgate parties, while the larger models provide ample cooking space for group gatherings.
Conclusion
Understanding the weight of a Big Green Egg is crucial when selecting the right model for your cooking needs. Whether you need portability, a large cooking surface, or the best heat retention, each model offers distinct advantages. The weight plays a key role in determining the functionality, ease of transport, and installation requirements for your Big Green Egg.
Fun Facts
- Eggshell Construction: The dense ceramic material of the Big Green Egg helps retain heat but also makes it quite heavy.
- Size Does Matter: The larger the Big Green Egg, the heavier it gets, but it also offers more cooking space.
- Portable Power: The Mini and MiniMax models are perfect for those looking for a lighter, portable version.
- Built for Durability: The heavy ceramic design ensures long-term durability and consistent cooking temperature.