Imagine biting into a perfectly blistered, smoky pizza, cooked in your own backyard under the stars. Doesn’t that sound amazing? Many of us dream of that authentic pizzeria taste right at home, but when it comes to buying an outdoor pizza oven, the choices can feel overwhelming. You see so many brands and types, and it’s tough to know which one will actually deliver that incredible flavor without breaking the bank or just collecting dust.
Choosing the wrong oven means wasted money and disappointing, undercooked pizzas. We know you want reliability and that coveted 900-degree heat for that perfect crust. That’s why we dove deep into what truly makes a pizza oven “rated” for excellence.
Keep reading to discover our top picks, what features matter most, and how to find the oven that turns your patio into the hottest spot in the neighborhood. Get ready to ditch delivery forever!
Top Rated Outdoor Pizza Oven Recommendations
- 【Premium & Safe Stainless Steel】Outdoor pizza oven is constructed with high-quality stainless steel. This sturdy and compact oven is safe for cooking all types of foods
- 【3-in-1 Multi-Fuel Pizza Oven】Pellet Pizza Oven for authentic wood-fired flavor, or switch seamlessly to BIG HORN Gas/Electric Burner attachments (Sold Separately). Ready in 18–20 min, reaches 887°F for perfect pizzas in 60–90 sec, plus steaks, fish, lamb, burgers, vegetables. Portable and suitable for indoor or outdoor use, rain or shine, all year round
- 【Ultra-Portable & Ease of Assembly】 The durable and lightweight pizza oven equipped with folding legs, requires minimal assembly without tools, it can quickly come apart for easy cleaning, storage and it weighs just 25lb, ideal for the backyard or outdoor cooking events
- 【Easy Use & Cook Evenly】Slide in your pizza and turn often for consistent results. Little sauce & minimal toppings work best for Neapolitan-style pizza, and switching to gas or electric (Sold Separately) is simple
- 【Dimension】The overall dimension of this unit is 21.6''L x 14”W x 28''H. Square Pizza Stone dimension: 12''L x 12''W
- HOT NEW FEATURES – A custom designed fuel tray that maximises airflow and delivers a powerful blast of searing flame allows the Ooni Karu 12 pizza oven to maintain the ultra-high temperatures – load it up with real wood or charcoal, with no excess ash to clean
- 12 INCH PIZZA IN 60 SECONDS – Fire up the Ooni Karu 12 with wood or charcoal straight out the box, or use with the Ooni Gas Burner attachment (sold separately) to cook with gas. The Karu 12 will be ready to cook in 15 minutes reaching a massive 950°F – Cooking authentic stone baked pizza in just 60 seconds! Giving you more time to sit back and relax in your backyard while enjoying great pizzas
- ULTRA PORTABLE – Weighing only 26.4lbs this outdoor pizza oven can be moved around easily but has all the power and heat of a larger wood fired pizza oven. Fold down the legs and remove the chimney and enjoy the freedom to cook amazing pizza on your next outdoor adventure.
- GREAT PIZZA – A motto that Ooni Pizza Ovens live by – We believe that everybody deserves great pizza and our Ooni Karu 12 Multi-fuel pizza oven has been designed with that sole purpose in mind.
- VERSATILE – Level up your pizza game with one of Ooni’s most popular ovens and learn how to become a true pizzaiolo – or discover that you can even use your pizza oven to cook steak, fish or veg in one of our cast iron range of cookware
- 5-IN-1 FUNCTIONALITY: The ultimate outdoor sidekick for all your backyard entertainment; pizza, bake, broil, warm & proof.
- 3 MINUTE ARTISAN PIZZA: Restaurant quality 12" pizzas with even leoparding on crusts and gooey cheese ready in 3 minutes* with no turning necessary.
- 5 PIZZA SETTINGS: Choose from 5 different settings to satisfy any craving; Neapolitan, Thin Crust, Pan, New York, and Custom. *cooked at 700°F, excludes 18-minute preheat.
- FULL MEALS OUTDOORS: Cook and warm your sides in your Ninja pizza oven at the same time your main is cooking—Char burgers on your grill while baking a 12” x 12” mac and cheese in your oven.
- NO FLAME, FULL CONTROL: Electric heat unlocks Complete Temperature Control with a wide range of temps from 90-700°F. Expand your horizons and cook more outdoors without the fuss of a live flame.
- Dual-Fuel Flexibility: As the hybrid outdoor pizza oven combining both pellet and gas fuel, this oven offers unmatched flexibility. Easily switch between pellet and gas fuel with no tools required. Enjoy authentic pizza anytime, anywhere
- Gas Burner Included: Equipped with a powerful gas burner, this propane pizza oven effortlessly reach 350°C in just 20 minutes. Switch between gas and pellets for versatile cooking options and enjoy safe, easy operation with precise temperature control
- Versatile Cooking Options: Not just for pizza—this oven offers multiple cooking options, allowing you to prepare a variety of dishes, from roasted meats to baked goods, all with that perfect wood-fired or gas heat
- Solid Pizza Oven: Crafted from durable stainless steel, this pizza oven features a wooden door handle, an upgraded pellet hopper for easy refueling, and a 12-inch pizza stone included for perfect cooking results, all with foldable legs and simple assembly for added convenience
- GREAT PIZZA, ANYTIME, ANYWHERE: Perfect for both beginners and seasoned chefs, this oven lets you cook incredible pizza no matter the weather or location. Its portable design ensures you can enjoy delicious pizza year-round, whether in your backyard or on your next outdoor adventure
- 【Multi-functional Outdoor Pizza Oven】 Our outdoor oven is much more than a pizza oven, as well as roasting meat, steaks, fish, bread and vegetable dishes and so much more. With the 12" pizza stone, you’ll get that perfect crispy crust on the bottom and around the edges of the pizza.
- 【Temperature Control】 Our outdoor pizza oven is ready to cook in 10 minutes. It reaches temperatures up to 550°F (287°C), cooking delicious pizza in 6-7 minutes. The built-in thermometer lets you keep an eye on the temperature while cooking. Our pizza oven has an adjustable chimney and air outlet which can easily control the firepower and the smoke.
- 【Practical Design】There is a detachable storage space for carbon ash, which is convenient for you to remove carbon ash. Easy to move with 2 large wheels and a side handle. An open shelf under the oven where you can store wood.
- 【PREMIUM QUALITY】 The outdoor pizza oven is made of high-quality iron which improves overall stability and ensures even heat transfer inside. The powder-coated carbon steel shell offers optimal heat retention.
- 【INCLUDED】$199 Value Accessory comes with a waterproof cover, 12x12 inches pizza stone, a pizza peel, stainless steel pizza cutter wheel, Pizza Oven Brush, Heat Resistant Oven Glove, Pizza Stands, two baking trays, and two carbon meshes.
- 【Premium & Safe Stainless Steel】Outdoor pizza oven is constructed with high-quality stainless steel. High temperature resistant coated stainless steel shell offers optimal heat retention. This sturdy and compact oven is safe for cooking all types of foods
- 【3-in-1 Multi-Fuel Pizza Oven】Pellet Pizza Oven for authentic wood-fired flavor, or switch seamlessly to BIG HORN Gas/Electric Burner attachments (sold separately). Ready in 18–20 min, reaches 887°F for perfect pizzas in 60–90 sec, plus steaks, fish, lamb, burgers, vegetables. Portable and suitable for indoor or outdoor use, rain or shine, all year round
- 【Ultra-Portable & Ease of Assembly】 The durable and lightweight pizza oven equipped with folding legs, requires minimal assembly without tools, it can quickly come apart for easy cleaning, storage and it weighs just 25lb, ideal for the backyard or outdoor cooking events
- 【Easy Use & Cook Evenly】Slide in your pizza and turn often for consistent results. Little sauce & minimal toppings work best for Neapolitan-style pizza, and switching to gas or electric (sold separately) is simple
- 【Dimension】The overall dimension of this unit is 21.6''L x 14”W x 28''H. Square Pizza Stone dimension: 12''L x 12''W
- Wood pellet pizza oven can cook 12 inch pizza for multiple people to share, suitable for family party The Outdoor pizza oven
- Pizza oven：Using hardwood pellet fuel allows for a balanced, reliable burn, providing the perfect burn-smoke ratio, adding a special flavor of smoky wood to food that gas grills don't have.
- New features: Built-in thermometer, no need to use additional infrared thermometer, the oven temperature expressed 662℉ (350℃) when you can start cooking pizza or other cuisine.
- Mobile grill:Pizza oven outdoor portable folding leg design allows you to eat your own handmade delicious pizza anywhere
- Multi-function: Not only can you make pizza, even steak, lamb chops, chicken wings or even vegetables, don't limit your creativity!
- Restaurant-Quality Pizza at Home: The Zachvo countertop electric pizza oven heats up to 850°F with 1700W high power, baking a 12-inch pizza in just 90 seconds. Featuring 6 dedicated pizza presets and a Chef Mode, it lets you prepare 5 authentic restaurant-style pizzas in 30 minutes—all from your own kitchen.
- Multifunctional Pizza Oven: More than just pizza, the Zachvo indoor countertop pizza oven also lets you grill steak and bake cakes—all with one versatile appliance for your kitchen.
- Unique Viewing Window Design: This Zachvo indoor pizza oven includes a special top-view window. Turn on the interior light to easily check your pizza's progress as it bakes, from the crispy edges to the bubbling cheese.
- 6 Pizza Presets: This Zachvo countertop electric pizza oven includes 6 pre-programmed settings for making Neapolitan, New York, thin crust, pan, or frozen pizza. You can also customize your own pizza to suit your personal taste.
- Digital Touchscreen Control: The Zachvo pizza oven features a digital touchscreen that clearly displays temperature and time. Switch modes, adjust heat, or set timers with just a touch. Its PID algorithm enables precise temperature control for consistent baking results.
Your Guide to Buying the Best Rated Outdoor Pizza Oven
Dreaming of crispy crusts and perfectly melted cheese, cooked right in your backyard? Buying an outdoor pizza oven can change your summer cookouts forever. We break down what you need to know before you buy.
Key Features to Look For
A great pizza oven offers more than just heat. Look closely at these features:
1. Temperature Range and Heat Retention
- High Heat: True Neapolitan pizza needs temperatures around 800°F to 900°F. Check the oven’s maximum temperature.
- Insulation: Good insulation keeps the heat inside. This means your oven heats up faster and stays hot longer, even when the wind blows.
2. Fuel Type Options
- Wood-Fired: These give the most authentic, smoky flavor. They require more tending (feeding the fire).
- Gas (Propane/Natural Gas): These offer easy ignition and consistent temperature control. They are very convenient for weeknight pizzas.
- Multi-Fuel: The best models let you switch between wood and gas, giving you flexibility.
3. Portability and Size
- If you plan to move it often, look for lightweight, compact models.
- If it stays in one spot, check the overall footprint. Make sure it fits your patio space.
Important Materials Matter
What your oven is made of directly affects how long it lasts and how well it cooks.
Exterior Construction
- Stainless Steel: Most good ovens use high-grade stainless steel. This material resists rust and handles high heat well.
- Powder Coating: This finish adds an extra layer of protection against scratches and weather.
Cooking Surface
- Cordierite or Ceramic Stone: These materials absorb moisture from the dough quickly. This action creates that signature crispy bottom crust. Avoid thin metal plates; they do not hold heat well enough.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Not all ovens perform the same. These details separate the good from the great.
Heat Management
- Thick Walls: Thicker steel or refractory materials mean better heat retention. A thin oven cools down fast when you open the door.
- Air Vents (Dampers): You must control the airflow to manage the fire. Good ovens have easy-to-adjust vents that let you fine-tune the flame.
Ease of Use
- Cleaning: Look for designs where ash is easy to sweep out. Some ovens have complicated internal structures that make cleaning difficult.
- Assembly: Check reviews regarding assembly time. Some require hours of work; others just need a few screws.
User Experience and Use Cases
Think about how you plan to use your oven.
The Weeknight Cook
If you want pizza fast after work, a gas-powered oven is your friend. It reaches temperature in about 15 minutes. You can cook several pizzas quickly without waiting for wood to burn down.
The Weekend Artisan
If you love the ritual and the smoky flavor, choose a wood-fired model. These require patience. You learn to “read the fire.” The reward is an unmatched, authentic taste.
Beyond Pizza
Many rated ovens can roast meats, bake bread, and even cook vegetables. If you want a versatile outdoor cooker, choose one with a large enough cooking surface and good heat circulation.
10 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Outdoor Pizza Ovens
Q: How hot do outdoor pizza ovens need to get?
A: For classic Neapolitan pizza, you need temperatures between 800°F and 900°F. Most good ovens can hit this range.
Q: Do I need a special stand for my pizza oven?
A: Yes. Most models require a sturdy, non-flammable base like a metal cart or a stone/brick counter. Check the manufacturer’s safety instructions.
Q: How long does it take to preheat a wood-fired oven?
A: It usually takes 30 to 45 minutes for a wood oven to fully saturate the stone with heat, depending on its size and insulation.
Q: Can I leave my outdoor pizza oven outside all year?
A: While most are built to withstand weather, covering them or storing them during harsh winters helps them last longer. Water and extreme cold can damage components.
Q: What kind of wood should I use?
A: Always use dry, seasoned hardwood like oak, maple, or fruitwoods. Never use treated wood or softwoods like pine, as they create too much smoke and creosote.
Q: Are gas pizza ovens less authentic than wood ones?
A: Gas ovens cook very fast and achieve high heat, but they lack the smoky aroma that wood imparts. The texture is similar, but the flavor is different.
Q: How do I clean the cooking stone?
A: Once the oven cools down slightly, you simply brush the stone clean with a wire brush. The high heat burns off most food residue.
Q: What is ‘thermal mass’ in an oven?
A: Thermal mass is the ability of the oven walls and stone to soak up and hold onto heat. Higher thermal mass means better, more consistent cooking.
Q: Does insulation affect cooking time?
A: Yes, better insulation means the oven holds its temperature better. This allows you to cook more pizzas in a row without long waiting times between bakes.
Q: What is the difference between a pizza oven and a regular grill?
A: A grill cooks with direct heat from below. A dedicated pizza oven cooks with intense heat radiating from the dome above and the stone below, mimicking a traditional brick oven.