re: Alternatives to the Big Green Egg

I just bought a BGE. Ultimately it was because of the hardware store that sold them and the service level they provide (assembled, delivered, let me use the nest for free while I built my table, came help install in the table once built, handles warranty issues directly, etc.). What I noticed on the major brands

BGE- expensive once you include the accessories that are standard on other models. Sold in smaller stores where they are able to handle any warranty claims.

Kamado Joe- People feel that it is less expensive than BGE, but the reality is, they were the same price (KJ 1200 with all accessories, BGE 859 with no accessories, 1200 with equivalent accessories). KJ does have some small feature upgrades like lid assist. Sold in big box stores where you may not get the dealer help in the future.

Vision- Older ones looked decent. I did not care for the bottom vent contraption on the newer models I saw at Home Depot. Looked like there was too much crap to break.

Primo- Similar to KJ or BGE, but their selling point is the oval grill. Not really saving any money by going with them or gaining anything other than if you like that shape.

Pit Boss- It goes on sale at Costco, but the one near me was 699. It says it's a 24 inch, but it measures 22. Seemed decent. I'd probably buy it over the Vision. But again, it's a big box store brand and some of the accessories looked slightly cheaper than the big name brands, but not much.

I think they all work the same. Vision is the only one I had issues with buying. And not because it wouldn't work. Just 10 years from now, I see all those knobs and stuff being broken and the design having changed, then they aren't available anymore. A refund check and a bonus coming on the same day made me not care about the price difference . Spending extra on the BGE didn't hurt me and I was very impressed with the hardware store, so that's why I chose it. Otherwise, I was going to get the Pit Boss.

to those saying it's not any better and a waste..... . It may not be worth it to you, but in the week I've had it, I've lit it 5 times. It's stupid easy to hit the exact temps I want and it holds it steadier than my oven (I've checked with my probe thermometers). I can keep that thing in a 10 degree window for hours while touching it very sparingly.