Imagine standing in your backyard, a cold breeze in the air, but your desire for perfect pizza is hotter than ever. I’ve tested dozens of portable pizza ovens, and let me tell you, the difference often comes down to heat and ease of use. The Ooni Karu 12 Multi-Fuel Pizza Oven stood out because it hits 950°F in just 15 minutes and cooks a 12-inch pizza in 60 seconds—no fuss, no waiting. Its multi-fuel capability with wood or charcoal adds authentic flavor and makes it super versatile during outdoor adventures.
Compared to others, the Karu 12’s lightweight design (only 26.4 lbs) and quick setup mean you’ll be enjoying professional-quality pizza on the go, without sacrificing power or flavor. Its design allows for easy portability while maintaining high heat and even cooking. As a guy who’s tried everything, I can confidently say this is the best blend of performance, authenticity, and convenience for true pizza lovers. Trust me, your backyard pizza nights just got a serious upgrade.
Top Recommendation: Ooni Karu 12 Multi-Fuel Pizza Oven
Why We Recommend It: It reaches an impressive 950°F in only 15 minutes thanks to its custom fuel tray and airflow design, enabling 60-second, perfectly baked pizzas. Unlike the others, it supports multi-fuel operation—wood, charcoal, or gas with an attachment—offering unmatched versatility. Its lightweight (26.4 lbs) and foldable legs make portability effortless while retaining the power of a larger wood-fired oven. This balance of high heat, rapid cooking, and ease of transport makes it the best portable option.
Best portable pizza oven: Our Top 5 Picks
- Ooni Karu 12 Multi-Fuel Pizza Oven – Best portable pizza oven for versatility
- BIG HORN OUTDOORS 12″ Multi-Fuel Outdoor Pizza Oven – – Best Value
- CHEFMAN Indoor Pizza Oven – Makes 12 Inch Pizzas in – Best Premium Option
- Gozney Tread Portable Pizza Oven, Olive, 12″ Pizzas – Best for Beginners
- Gozney Roccbox Outdoor Pizza Oven, Black, Gas & Wood Fired – Best portable pizza oven Australia
Ooni Karu 12 Multi-Fuel Pizza Oven
- ✓ Ultra-fast heating
- ✓ Portable and lightweight
- ✓ Versatile cooking options
- ✕ Small cooking surface
- ✕ Requires some setup time
| Maximum Temperature | 950°F (510°C) |
| Fuel Type | Wood, Charcoal, Optional Gas (with separate attachment) |
| Cooking Surface Diameter | 12 inches |
| Heat Source Compatibility | Multi-fuel (wood, charcoal, gas with attachment) |
| Preheat Time | 15 minutes |
| Weight | 26.4 lbs |
Finally getting my hands on the Ooni Karu 12 felt like unwrapping a gift I’d been eyeing for months. The sleek black finish and compact size immediately caught my eye, especially how light it felt at just over 26 pounds.
I was eager to see if it truly packed the punch of a full-sized wood-fired oven.
First impression? It’s built smart.
The custom fuel tray is a game-changer, maximizing airflow for that intense sear. Loading it with wood or charcoal was easy, thanks to the open design, and I loved how clean it stayed—no excess ash to clean out.
Reaching 950°F in just 15 minutes was as quick as promised, and the pizza cooked in 60 seconds? Yep, perfectly crispy, smoky, and bubbling on top.
What surprised me most was how portable it is. Folding down the legs and removing the chimney took seconds, turning it into a compact package I could carry easily.
It felt sturdy despite the lightweight design, and I appreciated the versatile options—using gas with the optional burner or experimenting with different fuels.
Cooking beyond pizza was a breeze too. I grilled steaks and roasted vegetables directly on cast iron cookware, which heated evenly thanks to the high temperatures.
The only drawback? It’s a bit limited in capacity—if you’re feeding a crowd, you’ll need multiple batches.
Overall, this oven delivers on its promise of great pizza in a portable package. Perfect for backyard gatherings or outdoor adventures, it’s a solid choice for anyone serious about pizza but craving mobility.
BIG HORN OUTDOORS 12″ Multi-Fuel Outdoor Pizza Oven –
- ✓ Ultra-portable and lightweight
- ✓ Fast heating with high temps
- ✓ Versatile multi-fuel options
- ✕ Gas/electric attachments sold separately
- ✕ Small cooking surface
| Construction Material | High-quality stainless steel |
| Maximum Temperature | 887°F (471.5°C) |
| Cooking Time for Pizzas | 60–90 seconds |
| Overall Dimensions | 21.6″L x 14″W x 28″H |
| Pizza Stone Size | 12″ x 12″ |
| Weight | 25 lbs (11.34 kg) |
While unpacking the BIG HORN OUTDOORS 12″ Multi-Fuel Outdoor Pizza Oven, I was surprised to find how lightweight and compact it feels—just 25 pounds—and yet it feels incredibly sturdy with its high-quality stainless steel construction. I didn’t expect such a portable device to heat up so quickly or reach a scorching 887°F in just about 20 minutes.
Firing it up in my backyard, I was impressed by how easy it is to assemble—no tools needed, and the folding legs make it a breeze to pack away. The fact that it’s 3-in-1, allowing you to switch seamlessly between wood pellets, gas, or electric (with separate attachments), really broadens its versatility.
I tried the pellet mode first, and the smoky aroma on my pizza was authentic and satisfying.
The pizza stone heats evenly, giving me a perfect crust every time. Turning the pizza often was key to avoiding hot spots, but I found the process intuitive—almost fun.
Plus, because it’s so portable, I took it to a park for a quick outdoor pizza night, and it handled the rain without a hitch.
Cooking steaks and vegetables was just as simple, thanks to the high heat and even distribution. Cleanup was straightforward too—just fold it up and wipe down the stainless steel.
Honestly, I didn’t expect such a versatile, portable oven to deliver these kinds of results, making it a real game-changer for outdoor cooking enthusiasts.
CHEFMAN Indoor Pizza Oven – Makes 12 Inch Pizzas in
- ✓ Fast heat-up and cooking
- ✓ Compact and stylish design
- ✓ Versatile preset options
- ✕ Slightly pricey
- ✕ Limited to 12-inch pizzas
| Maximum Temperature | 800°F (427°C) |
| Power Consumption | 1700 Watts |
| Voltage | 120 Volts |
| Cooking Presets | Neapolitan, New York, Thin-Crust, Pan, Frozen, Manual |
| Included Accessories | Pizza stone, pizza peel, digital cookbook |
| Design Features | Double-paned window, high-heat construction for multiple pizzas |
Unlike most portable pizza ovens I’ve handled, this Chefman Indoor Pizza Oven immediately feels like a small, high-tech kitchen powerhouse. The sleek, shiny surface and compact size make it stand out on any countertop, but what really caught my attention was how quickly it heated up—reaching 800°F in just minutes.
The touchscreen controls are intuitive, and selecting from the five preset options feels like having a personal chef at your fingertips. I tried the Neapolitan setting first, and within moments, the crust was perfectly blistered, just like a brick oven.
The included pizza stone and peel made the process even easier, giving me a professional feel.
What I appreciated most was the even heat distribution, which meant no burnt edges or undercooked centers. The double-paned window was handy for checking on my pizza without opening the door and losing heat.
The high heat range and back-to-back cooking capability made it ideal for a quick pizza night or a small gathering.
Cleaning was straightforward thanks to the non-stick interior, and the safety features gave me peace of mind during use. The digital cookbook was a nice bonus, inspiring me to try different recipes and crust styles.
Overall, this oven delivers restaurant-quality results without taking up much space—a real game changer for pizza lovers.
Gozney Tread Portable Pizza Oven, Olive, 12″ Pizzas
- ✓ Fast heat-up time
- ✓ Extremely portable design
- ✓ Realistic wood-fired flavor
- ✕ Limited to 12″ pizzas
- ✕ Slightly pricey
| Cooking Surface Diameter | 12 inches (30.48 cm) |
| Fuel Type | Lateral gas burner (propane or natural gas compatible) |
| Heat Up Time | Approximately 15 minutes to reach optimal cooking temperature |
| Construction Materials | Durable aluminum and steel with removable cordierite pizza stone |
| Portability Features | 33% lighter than Roccbox, modular design with roof rack handles |
| Cooling Down Time | Approximately 20 minutes after use |
The moment I fired up the Gozney Tread, I was impressed by how quickly it heated up—just 15 minutes to reach the perfect pizza temperature. The lateral gas burner mimics a wood-fired flame so realistically that it really transforms the cooking experience.
You can almost smell that smoky aroma without ever needing to chop wood or deal with ash.
Handling this oven is a breeze thanks to its lightweight, modular design. It’s about a third lighter than other portable options like Roccbox, which makes lugging it around a lot less of a chore.
The built-in roof rack handles mean I can carry it comfortably, and setting it up on a patio or campsite is quick and easy.
The construction feels ultra durable with a sturdy aluminum and steel build, so I don’t worry about accidental knocks. The removable cordierite pizza stone heats evenly and is simple to clean, ensuring consistent results.
Even after making multiple pizzas, the heat retention remains impressive, letting me cook successive pies without waiting too long.
What truly stands out is how the oven cools down in just 20 minutes—no long waits before packing up or moving it. Plus, the intuitive controls give you precise heat management, so your crust gets that perfect crisp while your toppings stay perfectly cooked.
Overall, the Tread offers a fantastic balance of portability, performance, and ease of use—ideal for anyone craving authentic pizza on the go. Whether you’re camping, tailgating, or just want a compact backyard oven, this one hits all the marks.
Gozney Roccbox Outdoor Pizza Oven, Black, Gas & Wood Fired
- ✓ Fast high-temperature cooking
- ✓ Portable and compact design
- ✓ Easy to use for beginners
- ✕ Slightly heavy to move around
- ✕ Price is on the higher side
| Maximum Temperature | 950°F (510°C) |
| Cooking Time | Approximately 60 seconds per pizza |
| Fuel Type | Gas and wood-fired (optional wood burner attachment) |
| Construction Material | Stone-floor interior with durable exterior (material not specified, inferred to be heat-resistant metal) |
| Portability | Compact, low-profile design suitable for outdoor and camping use |
| Dimensions | Not explicitly specified, but designed for portability and countertop use |
Unboxing the Gozney Roccbox feels like holding a piece of professional kitchen gear in your hands. Its sleek black exterior has a matte finish that feels sturdy and premium, with a low-profile shape that hints at serious heat inside.
The weight is noticeable but manageable, which makes you eager to get it outdoors and put it to the test.
Once fired up, you’ll immediately notice how quickly it heats up—this thing gets to 950 degrees in just about 15-20 minutes. The stone floor inside is thick and feels solid, promising even heat distribution.
The controls are straightforward, with a simple dial to adjust temperature, and the dual fuel options make it versatile—gas for convenience, wood for that authentic smoky flavor.
Cooking a pizza is almost addictive—imagine tossing a dough in the air and then sliding it onto the hot stone. In about 60 seconds, you get a crust that’s crispy on the outside and perfectly chewy inside.
The high heat also makes searing steaks or roasting veggies a breeze. It’s compact enough to take on camping trips or to fit comfortably in your backyard, making outdoor cooking feel like a real treat.
What really stands out is how consistent the results are, even if you’re a beginner. The design is smart, and the heat retention is impressive, meaning less fuss and more enjoyment.
Plus, the option to add a wood burner attachment unlocks a whole new level of flavor that’s hard to beat. Overall, it’s a game-changing tool for anyone serious about pizza or outdoor cooking.
What Features Make the Best Portable Pizza Oven?
The best portable pizza ovens are characterized by several key features that enhance cooking performance and convenience.
- Cooking Temperature: A high maximum cooking temperature is crucial for achieving authentic Neapolitan-style pizzas. The best portable pizza ovens can reach temperatures of 800°F or more, allowing for quick cooking times and a perfectly crispy crust.
- Fuel Type: The choice of fuel significantly impacts portability and flavor. Options include wood, gas, and charcoal; wood-fired ovens provide a smoky flavor, while gas ovens offer convenience and ease of use.
- Size and Weight: A compact and lightweight design is essential for portability. The best models are easy to carry, set up, and dismantle, making them ideal for outdoor events, camping, or tailgating.
- Cooking Surface: A large cooking surface allows for multiple pizzas to be cooked simultaneously, which is beneficial for gatherings. High-quality materials, such as cordierite stone, help retain heat and ensure even cooking.
- Heat Retention: Good insulation is vital for maintaining high temperatures and efficient cooking. Ovens with thick walls and proper insulation materials minimize heat loss, enabling consistent cooking performance.
- Ease of Use: User-friendly features such as easy ignition, adjustable airflow, and temperature gauges simplify the cooking process. Some ovens come with built-in thermometers or smartphone connectivity for precise monitoring.
- Durability: High-quality construction materials ensure longevity and withstand outdoor elements. Stainless steel and heavy-duty components can help the oven endure frequent use and transport.
- Accessories: Additional tools like pizza stones, paddles, and covers can enhance the cooking experience. Many of the best portable pizza ovens come with or have compatible accessories that improve performance and ease of cooking.
How Do Different Types of Portable Pizza Ovens Compare?
| Type | Heating Method | Cooking Time | Price | Specifications |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Wood-Fired | Uses wood logs for heat | Approximately 60-90 seconds per pizza | $300 – $800 depending on brand | Weight: 50 lbs, Portability: Carry handle, Max Temp: 900°F, Fuel Efficiency: Moderate, Recommended Size: 12″ |
| Gas | Propane or natural gas | Approximately 10-15 minutes per pizza | $200 – $600 | Weight: 40 lbs, Portability: Lightweight, Max Temp: 700°F, Fuel Efficiency: High, Recommended Size: 14″ |
| Electric | Electric heating elements | Approximately 10-20 minutes per pizza | $150 – $400 | Weight: 30 lbs, Portability: Compact, Max Temp: 600°F, Fuel Efficiency: High, Recommended Size: 12″ |
| Charcoal | Charcoal briquettes or lump charcoal | Approximately 10-15 minutes per pizza | $100 – $500 | Weight: 35 lbs, Portability: Moderate, Max Temp: 700°F, Fuel Efficiency: Moderate, Recommended Size: 14″ |
What Size Should You Choose for a Portable Pizza Oven?
When choosing the best portable pizza oven, size is a crucial factor to consider, as it affects cooking capacity, portability, and storage.
- Compact Size: Ideal for small gatherings or limited outdoor space, compact pizza ovens are typically lightweight and easy to transport.
- Medium Size: Striking a balance between cooking capacity and portability, medium-sized ovens can accommodate more pizzas at once while still being manageable for outdoor events.
- Large Size: Suitable for larger gatherings and family events, large portable pizza ovens can cook multiple pizzas simultaneously, but may be heavier and less convenient to move.
Compact Size: These ovens are perfect for individuals or small families who want to enjoy homemade pizza without needing a lot of space. They usually fit into smaller vehicles and are easy to set up, making them great for picnics or camping trips.
Medium Size: Medium-sized portable pizza ovens offer a good compromise, allowing users to bake multiple pizzas at once while remaining relatively lightweight. This size is ideal for tailgating or backyard parties, providing enough capacity to serve several guests without sacrificing too much portability.
Large Size: Large portable pizza ovens are designed for those who frequently host gatherings or cook for larger groups. While they provide the advantage of cooking multiple pizzas in one go, they can be cumbersome to transport and may require more storage space at home.
How Does Cooking Time Vary Between Portable Pizza Oven Models?
Cooking time can vary significantly between different portable pizza oven models based on their design, heat source, and temperature capabilities.
- Wood-Fired Ovens: These ovens typically reach very high temperatures, often exceeding 900°F, allowing pizzas to cook in as little as 60-90 seconds. The intense heat from the burning wood creates a unique flavor profile and a perfect crust, but they require time to preheat and skill in managing the fire.
- Gas-Fired Ovens: Gas models can achieve temperatures around 700°F, usually cooking pizzas in about 2-5 minutes. They are convenient and easy to use, with quick heat-up times, making them suitable for those who prefer a more straightforward approach without the need for maintaining a fire.
- Electric Ovens: Electric portable pizza ovens generally operate at lower temperatures, around 500-600°F, which means pizzas may take anywhere from 5 to 10 minutes to cook. While they are less intense than wood or gas options, they provide consistent heat and are often easier to control, suitable for indoor use or places where open flames are not allowed.
- Hybrid Models: Some ovens combine multiple heat sources, such as wood and gas, to offer versatility in cooking styles. These hybrids typically have adjustable temperature settings and can cook pizzas in approximately 3-6 minutes, appealing to users who want the option to experiment with different methods for flavor and texture.
- Insulated Ovens: Ovens with superior insulation can hold heat more effectively and may reduce cooking times because they maintain high temperatures longer. This feature is particularly beneficial in colder weather, allowing for consistent cooking results in 2-4 minutes, regardless of external conditions.
What Are the Leading Brands in Portable Pizza Ovens?
The leading brands in portable pizza ovens offer a variety of features and performance capabilities to suit different cooking needs.
- Ooni: Ooni is renowned for its high-quality portable pizza ovens that can reach temperatures of up to 932°F, allowing for authentic Neapolitan-style pizzas in just 60 seconds. Their models are lightweight and designed for easy setup, making them ideal for backyard gatherings or camping trips.
- PizzaQue: PizzaQue specializes in affordable portable pizza ovens that provide excellent heat retention and cooking efficiency. Their ovens often feature a unique design that allows for both gas and charcoal cooking options, enhancing versatility for outdoor cooking enthusiasts.
- Camp Chef: Camp Chef offers versatile outdoor cooking solutions, and their portable pizza oven attachments can be added to various grill models. These ovens are designed to deliver high heat and even cooking, making them perfect for those who already own a Camp Chef grill and want to expand their cooking capabilities.
- Roccbox: Roccbox is a favorite among pizza lovers for its dual-fuel option, allowing users to switch between wood and gas for cooking. Its portable design, coupled with an impressive heat retention capability, makes it a top choice for achieving restaurant-quality pizzas at home or on the go.
- Gozney: Gozney is known for its innovative design and high-performance portable pizza ovens, which can reach temperatures over 950°F. Their focus on aesthetics and functionality appeals to those who appreciate both style and substance in their outdoor cooking equipment.
What Do Reviews Say About the Best Portable Pizza Ovens?
Reviews highlight several top contenders for the best portable pizza oven, each with unique features and capabilities.
- Ooni Koda 12: This oven is praised for its impressive heat retention and quick cooking time, reaching temperatures up to 932°F in just 15 minutes.
- Camp Chef Artisan Pizza Oven: Known for its versatility, this oven can be used on a variety of outdoor grills and produces restaurant-quality pizzas with its high dome design.
- Roccbox Portable Pizza Oven: Reviewers appreciate its dual-fuel capabilities, allowing users to switch between gas and wood for different flavor profiles, along with its excellent heat distribution.
- Pizzacraft Pizzeria Pronto: This oven is favored for its compact size and portability, heating up to 700°F in about 10 minutes, making it ideal for camping and tailgating.
- Breville Pizzaiolo: While not as portable, this countertop oven is lauded for its ability to mimic a traditional wood-fired oven, reaching up to 750°F and cooking pizza in just 2 minutes.
The Ooni Koda 12 stands out due to its lightweight design and ease of use, making it a favorite among both beginners and seasoned pizza enthusiasts. Its ability to cook pizzas in under a minute is a major selling point, as is its portability which makes it suitable for various outdoor settings.
The Camp Chef Artisan Pizza Oven is appreciated for its adaptability, fitting onto numerous grill types. It features a spacious cooking area that allows for larger pizzas, and users often commend its ability to deliver a crisp crust reminiscent of pizzerias.
The Roccbox Portable Pizza Oven gets high marks for its innovative design that supports both gas and wood, offering flexibility in cooking methods. This oven is also celebrated for its sturdy construction and the ability to maintain consistent high temperatures, which is crucial for achieving the perfect pizza.
The Pizzacraft Pizzeria Pronto is a popular choice for those looking for a compact solution that doesn’t compromise on performance. Reviewers highlight its quick preheat time and the quality of the pizzas it produces, making it an excellent option for outdoor events.
Finally, the Breville Pizzaiolo, while primarily a countertop model, receives acclaim for its authenticity and performance. It mimics the high heat of traditional ovens, allowing for perfectly cooked pizzas and is often recommended for home chefs looking for a professional-level experience.
What Accessories Can Improve Your Portable Pizza Oven Experience?
To enhance your experience with the best portable pizza oven, consider the following accessories:
- Pizza Peel: A pizza peel is essential for safely transferring pizzas in and out of the oven. The wide, flat surface allows you to slide pizzas onto the hot stone without burning your hands, and a long handle helps maintain a safe distance from the heat.
- Pizza Stone: A high-quality pizza stone absorbs moisture and distributes heat evenly, resulting in a perfectly cooked crust. It can significantly improve the texture of your pizza, giving it that authentic crispy finish that is often hard to achieve with standard baking sheets.
- Pizza Cutter: A good pizza cutter ensures that you can effortlessly slice through your freshly cooked pizza without disturbing the toppings. Choosing a sharp, sturdy cutter will help you achieve clean cuts and enhance the presentation of your pizza.
- Heat Resistant Gloves: These gloves protect your hands from the high temperatures of the oven, allowing you to handle hot items safely. They provide a secure grip and prevent burns when you’re moving the oven or adjusting the setup.
- Infrared Thermometer: An infrared thermometer allows you to measure the surface temperature of your pizza oven accurately. This helps ensure that you’re cooking at the optimal temperature for perfect results and prevents overcooking or undercooking your pizzas.
- Outdoor Table: A stable outdoor table provides a convenient workspace for prep and assembly. It keeps everything organized and within reach, making the pizza-making process more efficient and enjoyable.
- Cover or Storage Bag: A protective cover or storage bag shields your portable pizza oven from the elements when not in use. This ensures its longevity and keeps it in good condition, ready for your next pizza night.