Are you looking for the perfect outdoor pizza oven to improve your summer cooking experience? If so, you’ve likely come across two of the best options on the market-Ooni Koda and Ooni Karu. In this blog post, we’ll be exploring what sets these two high-end wood-fired pizza ovens apart from one another in order to help you make an informed decision as to which is right for your needs. Whether it’s design, temperature range, or ease of use that matters most to you when choosing a home pizza oven, we’ll have all that covered in this comprehensive breakdown of Ooni Koda vs Karu.
Ooni Koda Overview
The Ooni Koda is a gas-fired pizza oven that offers an impressive range of features and capabilities. Its sleek and compact design makes it perfect for those with limited outdoor space, while its ability to reach temperatures of up to 932°F allows you to cook restaurant-quality pizzas in just 60 seconds. The Koda also boasts an easy-to-use ignition system and can accommodate pizzas up to 13 inches in size.
Ooni Karu Overview
On the other hand, the Ooni Karu is a versatile wood-fired pizza oven that offers both gas and wood fuel options. This allows for more control over the cooking process, as well as providing the option of traditional wood-fired flavor or convenience with gas. With its stainless steel body and ceramic fiber insulation, the Karu is designed for durability and can reach temperatures of up to 932°F. It also has a larger cooking surface than the Koda, accommodating pizzas up to 16 inches in size.
A Quick Comparison Of The Ooni Koda Vs Karu
The Ooni Koda is a gas-powered pizza oven that offers the convenience of firing it up with a standard propane gas bottle. Simply flip the switch, and it begins heating up.
In contrast, the Ooni Karu is a multi-fuel pizza oven. This versatile oven can utilize hardwood, charcoal, or with the addition of a separate gas burner attachment, even propane can be used.
An In-Depth Look At The Ooni Karu Vs Koda
The primary distinction between the Ooni Karu and the Ooni Koda lies in the type of fuel they utilize. The Ooni Karu is a versatile oven that can operate on wood, charcoal, or propane gas (with a separate adapter), whereas the Ooni Koda relies on gas as its power source. Both ovens boast a maximum temperature of 950°F (500°C) and are capable of cooking a pizza in just 60 seconds.
Ooni Koda Vs Karu – Size And Weight
When comparing the Ooni Koda and Karu, there are notable differences in size and weight. The Ooni Karu features dimensions of 30 x 15 x 31″, including the chimney, while the Ooni Koda 12 measures at 15.7 x 11.6 x 24.8″. As for weight, the Ooni Koda weighs 20.4 lbs, while the Karu weighs 26.5 lbs.
Ooni Koda Vs Karu – Design
When comparing the Ooni Koda and Karu, their designs differ in terms of simplicity, ease of use, and features. The Koda boasts a sleek design, absence of ash or soot, and no requirement for a chimney. On the other hand, the Karu provides more flexibility and delivers an authentic wood-fired pizza experience. Additionally, the 16-inch model of the Karu includes a built-in temperature gauge, while both models ensure the flame remains steady even in windy conditions.
Ooni Koda Vs Karu – Fuel
When it comes to fuel options, the Ooni Koda and Karu offer distinct choices. The Karu provides the flexibility to use hardwood, charcoal, or propane with the gas burner attachment. Hardwood creates an authentic wood-fired flavor without overpowering the pizza. Charcoal is great for deeper-dish pizzas and thicker crusts. The gas burner attachment offers the convenience of instant ignition and easy temperature control with propane.
On the other hand, the Ooni Koda is a gas-powered oven that offers simplicity and convenience. It can be connected to a propane gas bottle and heated up to the ideal pizza cooking temperature within 15 to 20 minutes. The Koda 16 even has the option to hook up to a natural gas source if available.
Both ovens perform exceptionally well, reaching high temperatures and cooking pizza perfectly in just 60 seconds. The choice between them largely depends on the experience and level of convenience you desire. The Karu provides a traditional and primal experience, while the Koda offers ease and efficiency.
Ooni Koda Vs Karu – Performance
When it comes to performance, both the Ooni Koda and Karu ovens are exceptional. Capable of reaching high temperatures of 950°F (500°C) and cooking a pizza in just 60 seconds, these ovens deliver impressive results. The Ooni Koda is designed with simplicity and ease of use in mind, featuring a sleek design, clean burning with no ash or soot, and no requirement for a chimney. On the other hand, the Karu offers even more versatility, providing an authentic wood-fired pizza experience.
Ooni Koda Vs Karu – Pros And Cons
The Ooni Koda 16 is a durable and portable oven that offers easy transportation with its fold-up legs and optional carrying bag. It is also relatively affordable compared to the Karu 16. However, it is important to note that the Ooni Koda 16 is limited to gas fuel and has a longer preheat time and recovery time between pizzas.
Should I Buy The Ooni Koda Or The Ooni Karu?
If you’re a beginner, the Ooni Koda would be an easier oven to learn on, while the Ooni Karu may require a bit more practice to master. However, both models are priced the same, so you can’t go wrong with either choice.
How To Cook On The Ooni Koda Vs Karu?
Ooni Koda
The Ooni Koda is incredibly easy to use, so you can get your pizza cooking in no time. To begin, fire up the oven by turning on the ignition switch and adjusting the heat setting. Once it’s reached the desired temperature (up to 500°C/932°F), slide your pizza onto its stone baking board and close the door. You’ll know your pizza is ready when the crust turns golden brown and bubbly cheese starts to ooze out of the edges. And that’s it – dinner is served.
Ooni Karu
Just like the Ooni Koda, the Karu is incredibly easy to use. To begin, fire up the oven by lighting a wood fire in its chamber. Once it’s reached your desired temperature (up to 500°C/932°F), slide your pizza onto its ceramic stone baking board and close the door. You’ll know your pizza is ready when the crust turns golden brown and bubbly cheese starts to ooze out of the edges. And that’s it – dinner is served.
See also: how to cook pizza in microwave
FAQs: Ooni Koda Vs Karu
Is OONI Karu 12 too small?
While debating between the 12″ and 16″ options, price played a significant role in my decision-making process. Opting for the 12″ version proved to be the perfect choice, despite initial concerns. Although the OONI Karu 12 makes for a portable option, it offers sufficient space for our pizza needs. As avid campers, the ability to fold it up, carry it in a case, and take it with us on our adventures is a tremendous advantage. We’re eagerly looking forward to making pizzas in the great outdoors.
Can Ooni Karu stay outside?
The Ooni Karu can be left outdoors, thanks to its high-quality covers that are snug fitting, durable, and waterproof. Storing indoors, however, will help ensure the oven stays in the best condition, as they say.
Is OONI Koda big enough?
The Ooni Koda 12 provides ample portability while being compact and lightweight. With a weight of only 9.25kg, it can easily fit into the boot of a small car. Although it is the smallest among the Ooni ovens, it is large enough to accommodate a 12 inch pizza.
Bobby Kelly is a bartender at Molly Magees, an Irish pub in Mountain View. He’s been working there for two years and has developed a following among the regulars. Bobby is known for his friendly demeanor and great drink specials. He loves interacting with customers and making them feel welcome. When he’s not at work, Bobby enjoys spending time with his friends and family.